Men suit design ideas

Stripes are also making a comeback, Prince of Wales checks, and waistcoats with fob chains, we'll all be wearing 'botanical' suits.

"This year we're already seeing a move away from this cut as men begin to embrace a more relaxed suit," . "They will still be slim fitted, but certainly not skin tight. And in line with the slightly looser fit, we'll also be seeing wider lapels and longer jackets and pants."

there were a lot of bright blue fabrics around. It was the year of the bright navy suit. That is on the way out as we move towards greyer colours, especially charcoal, and I think men will start to look towards various shades of olive green as well."
Mix and match

Mixing it up could also be on the cards, as men experiment with different fabrics and textures, often at the same time. "Why stick to a suit of just one fabric or colour?" "Pair a navy blazer with grey or charcoal trousers for a more individual look. It's all about finding your own individual style. Stripes, patterns, subtle weaves; it's all possible."

suits will remain slim, but not skinny, as people look towards comfort and a more conservative aesthetic. Shades of emerald and khaki green are going to be popular, as well as earthy tones (think sand), monochromatic greys and muted blues.

"As for fabrics, I'm seeing bold windowpanes and vintage-inspired checks for suits, and wool/silk blends for jacketing."

"Suit fashion is a seven-year cycle,I believe it's driven by the big manufacturers to keep people buying their products. The general public suddenly believes that the tight-fitting jacket they are wearing just doesn't cut the mustard anymore, and so they feel the need to buy something else.

"The tight-fitting suit with its slim, short trousers has been on trend for a while now, and so we'll see things getting wider again. On the catwalks in Europe we're even seeing bell bottoms. I don't think we'll quite get to that here, but suits will definitely get easier; lapels wider, and more room across the back and shoulders."


Classic cuts

if you want to get off the fashion merry-go-round, your only answer is to buy a well-made suit in a classic cut that will span time. What does such a suit look like? Take a look at Cary Grant in the 1930s and 40s.

"Jackets are fitted but with more room in the chest and across the back," he says. "And they are of a sufficient length that you can just cup your hands under the skirt of the coat. Lapels should be around 10cm wide and trousers are easier around the front, with one or two pleats, and little wider in the knee. The cuff should be around 17.5 inches."

steer clear of so-called trendy colours and patterns and opt instead for a classic navy blue and a mid-grey in a bird's eye or flannel fabric.

"In Australia's climate you can keep the material quite lightweight, no more than 280 grams per metre. Choose a wool that is soft and light, but durable, and the suit should last you up to 20 years."