Get ready to rethink everything you know about menswear, because 2026 is shaping up to be a game-changer. The old rules are out the window, and a new era of individuality, experimentation, and purpose-driven fashion is emerging. But here's where it gets controversial: is this shift towards personal expression truly liberating, or does it risk fragmenting the very essence of menswear? We asked six leading designers to weigh in, and their insights are nothing short of eye-opening.
As the Fall/Winter 2026 menswear shows kick off in January, they serve as the fashion world's first forecast of the year. To get ahead of the curve, we gathered a diverse group of creatives spanning the menswear spectrum. From rising indie stars like Rolf Ekroth, Saul Nash, and Bianca Saunders, to established names like Willy Chavarria and Jonny Johansson of Acne Studios, and even Alessandro Sartori, the artistic director of luxury powerhouse Zegna, this panel offers a comprehensive view of what's to come.
Breaking the Mold: Individualism Takes Center Stage
One thing is clear: the days of rigid fashion diktats are over. But is this newfound freedom a blessing or a curse? Ekroth notes, 'Clothes feel more personal and lived-in, and you’re allowed to mix things as you want.' Nash echoes this sentiment, highlighting a 'real mix of influences' that defy traditional norms. Saunders adds that while individualism is key, it's about finding 'basics that make you feel like an individual.'
Johansson observes a 'freeform approach' among young men, who are redefining classic menswear through subtle, personal touches. Sartori, meanwhile, sees his affluent clients at Zegna seeking 'the speed and coolness of a modern brand' without sacrificing their unique identity. Chavarria takes it a step further, arguing that fashion is no longer about defining masculinity through dominance or power but as 'a mosaic of identities.'
And this is the part most people miss: this shift isn't just about aesthetics; it's deeply sociological. Ekroth points out that while progress is being made, there's still 'pushback' in challenging traditional notions of masculinity. The question remains: can menswear truly evolve without alienating its core audience?
Craft, Quality, and Detail: The New Currency
Another recurring theme is the emphasis on craftsmanship and longevity. Saunders, who operates direct-to-consumer, focuses on creating 'long-lasting and timeless' pieces that grow with the wearer. Nash predicts a demand for items that 'feel special and personally attached.' Sartori showcases Zegna's innovations on the runway, where even 'uncomplicated garments' hide intricate details that 'geeks' appreciate.
Johansson senses a 'return to craft and tradition' not as nostalgia, but as a way forward. Nash even predicts AI will play a role, blending 'modern artisanal craftsmanship' with technology. But here's the controversial part: as fashion becomes more detail-oriented, does it risk becoming exclusionary, catering only to those who can afford it?
A Recalibration of Pace: Less Noise, More Connection
In a world of fast fashion and endless scrolling, there's a growing desire for connection and intentionality. Nash advocates for 'clothes you live in and engage with,' not just fleeting trends. Saunders notes that clients are revisiting older collections, preferring pieces that 'seep into their wardrobe.'
Ekroth sees the current chaos in menswear as an opportunity for creativity, while Sartori's clients are increasingly focused on 'intentional and personal' purchases. Johansson predicts music will have a stronger influence on fashion, while Chavarria declares that 'without purpose, it’s just more clothes.'
So, what do you think? Is this new era of menswear a step forward or a step too far? Does individualism risk diluting the essence of fashion, or is it the evolution we've been waiting for? Let us know in the comments—this conversation is just getting started.
