Menswear

Ralph Lauren Spring 2026

September 18, 2025 by admin Leave a Comment

If there is one designer who knows how to read American culture and turn it into a classic, sophisticated collection, it would be Ralph Lauren. As models drifted down the stairs of a Madison Avenue townhouse, you could hear a pin drop. The collection was soft, a touch bohemian, and deliciously feminine. Viewing the clothes, you felt as if you were walking in on a close friend getting ready for an event at her beach house. Coastal elements played into the collection from the second look onwards. Stripes, shell motifs, large, oversized hats, and lightweight white linens flowed as evidenced as the models down the runway.

The entire collection focused on prioritizing effortlessness. As if each garment had simply been flung on the model and happened to look this good. The soft lines and light neutrals helped with this. It was obvious that Ralph Lauren’s spring 2026 collection was leaning into the minimal look that has been growing so popular lately, but it wasn’t boring or beige. The sharp red dresses punctuated the quiet collection with a bang, much like your friend who drinks a few too many glasses of rosé at a beach party.

Images courtesy of tom+lorenzo.com

As for the accessories? It would be neglectful not to mention the sweeping, oversized sun hats once more. But the items that cemented Ralph Lauren has clearly been paying attention to the world’s need for a luxurious, sun-kissed vacation were the bamboo-handled tote bags, simple espadrille-styled shoes, and chunky, statement necklaces. We may have just finished Euro summer, but this collection will be what all the ‘it’ girls are wearing in Capri next summer.

—Sydney Yeager

L’Enchanteur Spring 2026

September 18, 2025 by admin Leave a Comment

For spring 2026, L’Enchanteur transforms the runway into an aquatic journey, where sound, literature, and myth become one. The show draws on Drexciya’s Afrofuturist mythology of resilience, Alice Coltrane’s celestial jazz, and Leontyne Price’s operatic force to create an atmosphere that channels sound as spirit.

Grounded in texts like 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and Paul Gilroy’s The Black Atlantic, the presentation reflects on the ocean as a connective force across diasporas, honoring humanity’s ability to imagine new worlds and their eternal bond to the cosmic womb from which all life emerges.

The brand explored fabrics that heighten the body’s energetic fields through megahertz frequencies. Color palettes draw from the deep sea, channeling the iridescence and mystery of oceanic life. Textiles range from floral lace and handwoven fabrics to textured leathers.

This season marks the introduction of L’Enchanteur footwear, expanding their design language into new silhouettes. ETA emblems appear across leather loafers, sandals, and flip-flops manufactured in Lagos, Nigeria. Fabrics and textiles sourced from Dominica tie together their paternal and maternal roots, a foundation embedded in their design approach and apparatus.

Images courtesy of Sandrine Charles PR

L’Enchanteur also focused on perfecting their unique firefly clasp closures for their signature ETA vests and wide shorts, as well as distinctive design elements like the sailor-styled pants in multiple patterns and silhouettes, highlighting their unique approach to design, form, and shape.

—Lauren Pierre-Louis

Evan Hirsch Spring 2026

September 15, 2025 by admin Leave a Comment

Presented at the historic 3 West Club, Evan Hirsch’s Found Opulence: Thrifted Beginnings, Couture Endings unveiled 29 one-of-a-kind looks, each meticulously transformed from garments sourced through ShopGoodwill.com and Goodwill’s brick-and-mortar stores. Sitting in the audience, Fashion Reverie watched as thrifted beginnings were elevated into runway-ready couture, each look shimmering with Hirsch’s signature artistry.

The partnership’s roots are as imaginative as Hirsch’s designs. What began as a quiet experiment, Hirsch hand-beading a red Goodwill dress and returning it to the rack went viral when the six-dollar “couture” piece, caught widespread online attention. That story reached PEOPLE magazine and eventually ShopGoodwill.com, setting the stage for this groundbreaking collaboration.

“My inspiration was what I call Found Opulence: Thrifted Beginnings, Couture Endings,” Hirsch told the audience. “These garments were once overlooked, but with care and imagination, they became extraordinary.” His words rang true as the collection unfolded, blending glamour with sustainability.

The show opened with a cream and gold lace surplice pantsuit, a statement of transformation that set the tone. A parade of gowns followed: a cream and blue evening gown, a midnight sequin dress with floral brooch detail, a gold strapless gown with sash, and a burnt orange one-shoulder piece adorned with floral appliqué. Hirsch’s famed transforming creations drew gasps most memorably, a gold poncho unveiling a pink sequin mini dress and a puff-sleeve wedding gown that blossomed into a brooch-encrusted finale.

The collection struck a balance between romance and edge. Highlights included a silver gown with an embroidered organza cape, a black satin corset dress with ostrich appliqué, a sequined bustier gown with layered skirt, and a sharply tailored black suit reimagined with embroidered mesh overlay. Each look reaffirmed Hirsch’s philosophy that fashion’s most dazzling expressions can spring from humble, thrifted origins.

Images courtesy of John Pankratz

Following the show, Hirsch announced that 15 of the designs will be auctioned exclusively on ShopGoodwill.com, allowing fashion enthusiasts to own runway pieces while supporting Goodwill’s workforce development programs nationwide.

Reflecting on the evening, Hirsch shared: “This show was the most intricate production I have put on to date. I really wanted the event to reflect the grand transformations of the Goodwill pieces by giving each look a spotlight in the ornate Grand Ballroom. When I finally saw all 29 looks together in succession on the runway, I truly felt like my up-cycling dream had come true.”

Tijana Ibrahimovic

Malan Breton Spring 2026

September 15, 2025 by admin Leave a Comment

With Malan Breton you can always expect show. And that is what he delivered for his spring 2026 collection. Still, after two decades of presenting collections during New York Fashion Week (NYFW) you would assume that Breton would understand that less is more.

In this spring 2026 collection, Malan Breton did not get the memo. Though there were some stunning garments in this collection, at times there were too many ideas, some which conflicted with Malan Breton’s inspiration. Malan Breton should have remembered what the great Coco Chanel once said, “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.” In this case, Breton should have taken several things off.

That said, Malan Breton was inspired by time in four acts: Act 1, The Heart; Act 2, Time; Act 3, Transformation, and Act 4, Legacy. In his program notes Breton exclaims, “Time is the most precious gift, threading life, machine, and humanity together, in a fleeting dance of creation and process. When honored, it reminds us that every moment fuels existence, innovation, and connection. In ways no machine can replicate.”

Through this spring 2026 collection Breton employed 1920s and 1970s themes. There were several beaded flapper-like cocktails dresses that make any woman shine and sparkle, as well as some sparkly sequined and beaded gowns that would complement any red-carpet appearance. Additionally, the sequined ladies’ pantsuits made a quite a statement.

When it comes to Malan Breton’s 70s-inspired men’s suiting there was quite a bit left to be desired. The flared pants were way too flared which threw off the portions of the suits. And some of the boxy shoulders of the suit jackets looked a bit odd with tailoring that could have been more precise.

The addition of former Broadway stars from the original production of “A Chorus Line,” namely Priscilla Lopez, Donna McKechnie, and Baayork Lee was and interesting cast choice. However, most of the audience members had no idea who these Broadway icons were—remember the original “A Chorus Line” is from the mid-1970s. Also, their addition added a kitschy in-your-face quality that Malan Breton should leave behind.

Images courtesy of Lawlor Media Group

Still, as with all Malan Breton’s fashion shows, there was a lot of glitz, glam, and panache. If only he would make his clothes the center of the collection. Bravo to Sandi Bass for great casting of the other models in the show.

—William S. Gooch

Public Serv-ce Spring 2026

September 14, 2025 by admin Leave a Comment

Streetwear fashion is a legitimate part of the fashion lexicon. What was once seen as a passing trend has now become a focus in style and projection for many fashion designers/brands.

Public Serv-ce is one such fashion brand. Founded in 2022 by Raphael Young, Public Serv-ce emphasizes bold wardrobe essentials where foundational basics reign supreme.

In this debut collection at New York Fashion Week (NYFW) Young choose to stick mostly with a neutral palette. This decision worked well for some silhouettes; however, as an overall approach the neutral palette the collection, at times, appears as a more of same streetwear collection with very little pop and interest.

What can be said about this collection is that the garments are well constructed with good styling. And it is quite obvious that Young aims to merge hip-hop culture with refined tailoring. Young does just that; unfortunately, what is missing from this lofty effort is a projection toward the future. As the great fashion editor Diana Vreeland distilled, “fashion should be now and next.” The Public Serv-ce spring 2026 is absent of the all-important next.

Images courtesy of vraimagazine.com

Without the next, we’ve seen these looks before. Maybe not as well constructed, but all seen before!!

That said, this NYFW debut is a very good start. If Young turns the volume up, adds some bold color while staying true to his design aesthetic, this brand could gain some serious traction.

William S. Gooch

HOLD NYC Spring 2026

September 13, 2025 by admin Leave a Comment

In this spring 2026 outing, HOLD NYC seeks to break with traditional male suiting and project a more comfortable, consumer-friendlier way for men to be styled and look professional. Holden Akerley projects a strong queer aesthetic into this spring 2026 collection.

That said, in 2025, with spring 2026 right around the corner, what is a queer aesthetic? As we have moved and embrace—well some folks—LGBTQIA+ culture and the lines between masculine and feminine silhouettes have become increasingly blurred, it is sometimes difficult to discern what a queer aesthetic looks like.

What was evident about the HOLD NYC spring 2026 collection was the bold color used with a variety of textiles and fabrics and that this collection was heavy—in a good way—with great separates. As in previous outings, this spring 2026 collection focuses on how stylish young men want to dress.

There is also a lot of bold colors in this spring 2026 collection. This collection is saturated with pastel blue and vibrant teal hues, pops of pink, touches of shimmer, flared shorts, and just a hint of retro-mod style knitwear, it’s a sexy menswear collection designed to be flaunted for the warmer and relaxed season ahead. And if you want to make a strong fashion statement that draws attention at every turn this collection is for you!!

Images courtesy of CCM Media

If there was one drawback to this presentation it would be the Mount Everest steps that had to be climbed—and in my case conquered—to get to this showing. We all know that at times fashion is often created for the young at heart. However, in this outing, this presentation was for youthful energy. It took a lot of energy to climb to the fourth floor to witness the HOLD NYC spring 2026.

Luckily, it will not take that kind of energy to purchase this collection that dresses a variety of men at every jointure of their day. Let the gods be praised!!

—William S. Gooch

A. Potts Fall 2025

February 11, 2025 by admin Leave a Comment

Can something wonderful come out of a depressed state? Absolutely, and A. Potts fall 2025 collection is a testament to that.

That said, yes, the fall 2025 collection is dark, and yes, somber. And perhaps this is the result of Aaron Potts reflection on the November presidential election and the explosive nature of our current administration. Still, this collection is another example of Aaron Potts unique ability to take simple silhouettes, silhouettes that are familiar, and remake and present those familiar silhouettes in an innovative way that has not been seen before.

This fall 2025 collection is heavy on black tones with some injection of grey camouflage patterns, grey tones with a minor injection of orange and white. Potts ingeniously references street culture, club culture, and genderless freedom.

Long an advocate of genderless fashion and garments that render freedom of movement, this collection works well for all gender expressions and promotes comfort and ease of movement. Interestingly, there are some references to the club culture of the 1980s, an era that was marked by individuality. (Think the hats worn by the 80s pop group The Thompson Twins.)

Like much of A. Potts design aesthetic, this fall 2025 collection is for a niche consumer, that consumer that wants to take a risk and be noticed. And a niche audience is who Potts wants to appeal to.

Keeping his fashion brand on a manageable level is very important to Aaron Potts. Having worked for larger brands and being exposed to the hustle and frantic work life that comes in big brands, Aaron Potts has decided to keep his fashion brand at a manageable level.

Images courtesy of Agentry PR

This fall 2025 collection stays true to Potts’ intention and provides garments that will continue to appeal to consumers that are attracted to the fusion of streetwear and genderless fashion. And though this collection came out of struggle, this collection proves that struggle can produce genius.

—William S. Gooch

Coofandy Spring 2025

September 9, 2024 by admin Leave a Comment

If you haven’t heard of Coofandy, then you are missing great men’s looks. Known for its simplicity in silhouette and its classic style, since 2015 the brand has designed modern men essentials for daily use. Coofandy creates modern wardrobe basics, as well as dress shirts, suits, and tuxedos.

For the brand’s spring 2025 collection, Coofandy sought to continue the brand’s design aesthetic of simple modern classics. Coofandy believes that its market appeal is for that male consumer who wants “the quiet strength of classic style-effortless, enduring, and forever relevant.”

Coofandy’s spring 2025 collection “Floral Moments” was co-designed with Isabella Cortese. In a complex world, minimalism is flourishing. The designer captures three blooming moments during the spring-summer journey: early morning mist, golden sunset, and serene midnight. By blending minimalism with natural flowers, they craft a visual aesthetic and a philosophy of exploring nature and the inner self.

Over the past nine years, since its inception, Coofandy has established a very strong online presence. And with the simplicity of the brand’s modern classic, Coofandy is setting a standard for male consumers looking to easily and efficiently find garments that meet their daily needs.

Coofandy’s spring 2025 runway show was highlighted by having supermodel Sean O’Pry as one of the top models in the show. O’Pry not only opened and closed the show, but also proved that after 17-year career, he still looks great and continues to be relevant.

Images courtesy of Coofandy

With this spring 2025, Coofandy is well on its way of establishing themselves as a lifestyle brand; perhaps, in the manner of Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren. Hmm, Coofandy just might accomplish that!!

—William S. Gooch

Custo Barcelona Spring 2025

September 9, 2024 by admin Leave a Comment

We. Art. Custo Always. These four words appeared on several pieces in Custo Barcelona’s spring 2025 collection, specifically focusing on the punctuation of we and art. As the popular slang term “period,” where people actually end a sentence saying period to emphasize their previously mentioned statement, Custo Barcelona made its audiences think about what “we” and “art” could mean.

There is a longstanding debate on whether fashion is art, but Custo Barcelona is one of the brands trying to prove that fashion is art, in fact, wearable art. Is it impossible for something to exist simultaneously in the worlds of art and commerce? One tee shirt and one hoodie featured a graphic print of a psychedelic dressed boho chic type, reminiscent of a young Rachel Zoe, riding a bird as she sat among hot air balloons. One of the hot air balloons featured the phrase “We. Art. Custo. Airways.” Hmm, you decide.

Rachel Zoe at the height of her celebrity stylist career in the ‘00s when she starred on her eponymous reality series “The Rachel Zoe Project” on Bravo was one of the first public figures to popularize the boho chic. Simultaneously, the Olsen twins, Mary Kate and Ashley, were also purveyors of the boho chic trend in the ‘00s, as the two favored free-spirited pieces, like billowy shawls and chunky necklaces.

With the resurgence of the boho chic trend, and celebrities including Bella Hadid, Zoe Kravitz, and Emily Ratakjowksi, Custo Barcelona is given an opportunity to shine reintroducing and repurposing the boho chic trend. The boho chic look has also long had an audience at music festivals and Coachella, and many of the looks in the collection were Coachella-worthy.

Notable pieces that could be seen at next summer’s music festivals included a yellow halter neckline glitter cocktail dress with a flowing tulle cape, a green leopard print dress with billowing sleeves, and a white fishnet dress adorned with paillettes and a green tiered truffle trim hem. Trippy graphic prints which include a buffalo with rainbow dreadlocks to a monkey riding a bicycle in a field of corn also added an acid trip art aesthetic to the colorful collection.

Images courtesy of Kendam

With the timing of spring and the music festival season kicking off in April 2025, if Custo Barcelona is aiming for sales, this collection was a smart consumer move. If there’s one thing the music festival crowd also loves to do, it’s shop for new concert outfits.

—Kristopher Fraser

Dur Doux Spring 2025

September 8, 2024 by admin Leave a Comment

The mother daughter duo, Najla and Cynthia Burt, of Dur Doux scored another hit with their ‘Visages des Femmes’ spring 2025 collection. Though this collection focused mostly on garments that were of the resort variety, the looks were bold, colorful with a wide consumer appeal.

This vibrant collection contained rich, striking colorful palettes of rich tangerine, canary yellow, chartreuse, goldenrod, and natural greens. Add to these tropical tones refined watercolor portraits and you have a collection that will make consumers yearn for lazy exotic locations with tropical breezes and sun-kissed beaches.

Najla and Cynthia Burt also introduced their men’s ‘Casa Cotiere’ capsule collection during this spring 2025 outing. Created for that free-spirited male consumer, this capsule collection contained relaxed linen shirts, short-sleeve button-ups, linen-cotton pants, hand-washable shorts, and swim trunks. ‘Casa Cotiere’ dresses a man at every jointure of his day while he is enjoying balmy breezes and tropical nights.

Najla and Cynthia Burt chose to present their spring 2025 collection outside in narrow confines of Walker Street, in the Soho district of Manhattan. While not exactly a sun-kissed beach, this venue was a much-needed change from some of the stale venues that have now become too much of a part of New York Fashion Week (NYFW).

And having the male and female models strut down narrow Walker Street side by side gave a nostalgic look back to the golden age of runway shows of the 1970s and 1980s. (Who cannot forget Pat Cleveland strutting down the runway arm in arm with Tony Spinelli.)

What also stands out about this collection is the mother/daughter duo’s knowledge of what consumers want to wear, while incorporating the current trends of diaphanous fabrics, sequins, and sheer looks. That said, this collection should have a lot of retail value with the evening garments that standouts of the collection.