As of mid-2025, men’s fashion is enjoying a rare moment of stability. Instead of wild new fads, the focus is on timeless pieces and subtle luxury. Fashion is fickle – what’s “in” one day can be “out” the next – but style is enduring. Right now, well-dressed men are relying on classic essentials that never go out of vogue: think quality navy suits, white shirts, dark denim and fresh white sneakers, all foundation pieces that keep you looking sharp year-round. The mood is all about quiet luxury – understated excellence without flashy logos. Accessories reflect this steady vibe too. A timepiece like the Rolex Sea Dweller as a statement fashion piece remains perennially popular, often fetching five-figure prices on watch marketplaces. Rather than chasing gimmicky “it” items, many men are investing in heritage watches and other pieces that hold their value (and polish off an outfit nicely).
Even style advice these days emphasizes getting the basics right. Fashion writers (like the wonderfully acerbic DieWorkWear on Twitter) encourage men to prioritize fit and quality over fast thrills. In another well-known recent guide, men are yet again urged to “invest in high-quality pieces… that will stand the test of time,” leaving fast-fashion quick fixes behind. Building a confident look is perfecting the fundamentals of one’s wardrobe, not necessarily being a peacock. It’s a calm, classic moment – the menswear equivalent of clear skies.
Yet this stability may be short-lived. The industry is buzzing with an unprecedented shuffle of creative directors at major fashion houses – a sign that seismic change is coming. In Paris, Dior has tapped British designer Jonathan Anderson to take over menswear (as well as womenswear and couture) after years of Kim Jones’s tenure. Anderson’s known for his playful, artful touch at Loewe, so his Dior debut could bring a jolt of fresh energy and new silhouettes to men’s high fashion. So his baton at Loewe passes to the acclaimed duo from Proenza Schouler, likely heralding a blend of Spanish craftsmanship with New York cool in their upcoming collections. Also to watch: ex -Sportmax designer Miguel Castro Frietas’ Mugler, Mark Thomas’ Carven, Duran Lantik at Jean-Paul Gaultier and Pierpaolo Piccioli’s Balenciaga, all of whom are starting with their Women’s Ready To Wear collections next month. Glenn Marten’s Margiela and Michael Rider’s Celine may drop unisex pieces this Paris too like their predecessors. And will Mathieu Blazy’s Chanel cause menswear tremors too?
Milan is seeing its own upheaval: Donatella Versace has stepped aside, with Dario Vitale (a Miu Miu alum) now installed as Versace’s creative chief. It’s the first time in 47 years someone outside the Versace family leads the brand – a truly historic changing of the guard. Observers expect Vitale to respect Versace’s sexy, maximalist heritage but also infuse contemporary twists from his avant-garde background. Likewise at Bottega Veneta, a new creative vision is taking shape under designer Louise Trotter. More changes afoot too at Jil Sander with Simone Bellotti (ex-Bally) and Marni with Meryll Rogge. However the earthquake will be Demna Gvasalia’s New Gucci who will release a sneak peek of his vision next month with a full collection next March.
All told, nearly every big-name label is bracing for a reboot. As these new designers unveil their first collections in the next few months, men’s style could shift dramatically. We may see the reign of safe neutrals and quiet luxury give way to bolder statements, innovative tailoring, or a revival of opulence. For now, men’s fashion is enjoying a steady groove, but it truly feels like the calm before the storm. By this time next season, the style status quo may well be overturned – so watch this space.