Image via Complex Original
Trends come and go, and every year we get a grip of new trends, as well as comebacks from old favorites. This year, we saw a resurgence of '90s trends, including the shirt-tied-around-the-waist and classic wheat Timberland boots. Then there were those '60s looks people tried bringing back. And then, came the more recent trend of animal faces on T-shirts that is somehow both ridiculous and awesome at the same damn time. In the end, some were simply better than the others.
We're only at the halfway mark in the year, but it's already becoming clear which ones are stand-outs. From tailored sweats, to floral prints, to all-over print shirts, here are The 10 Best Style Trends of 2012 (So Far).
Pattern Mixing
We saw pattern mixing everywhere this year, from the runway to the streets, on fashion dudes at Pitti Uomo to your local bloggers. It is a little tricky and even risky because not all prints and colors may work well together, so knowing the perfect combination is key. But trust us—when done right, it's fucking awesome. There is one basic rule to follow when it comes to this trend: don't go Nantucket. Break up the patterns with solid colors and try to wear them in doses. Don't wear a printed sweater over a printed shirt with a printed tie and so on. Also keep in mind to rock the patterns up top and keep the bottom subtle. If you have to do a double take on yourself when you look in the mirror then chances are it looks mad awkward.
Image: Grazia
Breton Stripe Shirt
The Breton stripe shirt originated in Brittany, a French province close to the water where a lot of sailors lived. The cotton garment usually has a boat neck with stripes that begin around the chest. As far as we're concerned, these shirts never really went out of style. It's the perfect marriage between something casual and versatile. Throw them on with jeans or solid chinos, and underneath a denim jacket or blazer and you're good to go.
Image: Tommy Ton for GQ
Vintage Jewelry
O.K., we know vintage may not appeal to everyone, but trust us when we say that some of the best jewelry was made before you were even born. Chanel made dope chains back in the day, so did Givenchy and Christian Lacroix. Both Hermès and Cartier came out with some pretty nice watches, too. You can't forget the classic Versace rings either. There's a lot to choose from, and this year we finally saw a jump in its popularity, especially among celebrities. There really is no rule as to what you should rock because it's all personal preference, but if there's one thing you should know, it's how to buy vintage jewelry. Once you've got that down pat, go crazy. As they say, "some things get better with age."
Running Sneakers Replacing Dress Shoes
Yeah, yeah, you've already got a pair of Nike Free Runs, but you might want to pick up a couple more pairs. We've noticed both street style mainstays and regular dudes trading their double monk straps for running sneakers. Rock them with jeans and T-shirts, or tailored pants.
For variety, you could even throw on a pair of New Balance 574s. Hem your trousers without a break, or cuff your jeans past the ankles to show off your shoes. While you're at it, try a bright colorway for that extra kick.
Image: Tommy Ton for GQ
Polka Dot Chambray
Sure, certain trends don't work for everyone, but the great thing about polka dot chambray shirts is that every guy can rock them. As long as you don't go crazy with your bottoms, whether they're pants or shorts, there's no way to mess this one up. Just try to go for smaller polka dots—you can't be looking like a clown out here. And if you do decide to wear a short-sleeve button down shirt, then you should probably read this.
Image: Ben Ferrari for GQ
Pocket Tee
A pocket tee is a classic wardrobe staple for many because it's casual and simple but with that little extra detail. This year, the shirt saw various interpretations from streetwear brands like Tantum and ONLY NY and high-end labels like Maison Martin Margiela. The pocket makes a great statement by itself but it's also functional — we could always use temporary storage for a chick's number. Even though most pocket tees are simple, try not to make the rest of your look too busy. You want the focus to be on the contrasting pattern on the pocket.
Tailored Sweats
Athletic-style clothing can be summed up by pieces that fall into the realm of sportswear, including sweats. Brands like T by Alexander Wang, Publish, Wings and Horns, and Acne have designed their interpretation of cotton sweatpants. It's an easy way to look great without trying too hard. Try pairing them with a more put-together look up top, or with a basic tee and dope sneakers for a simpler look. The key to avoiding a sloppy look is going for a trim, not skinny, silhouette.
Floral Print
Seriously, was there any pattern more prominent this year than the floral print? We saw it on shirts, shorts, pants, caps, accessories, and even on the toughest dudes out there. It dominated runways and street style blogs alike. You see, here's the thing about floral prints: they are just so easy to wear. Plus, they can easily take your kit up a notch without trying too hard. So if you've got a few already, keep rocking them. If not, what're you still waiting for? You can wear them on pretty much any item of clothing. Just remember to put the focus on the pattern and keep the rest subtle. And never ever wear floral from head-to-toe.
Image: Noah Emrich
Street Goths
The trend has gained more popularity as of late with avant-garde designers like Rick Owens and Raf Simons leading the way. It consists of mostly black, minimalistic and raw-edged items. Often, you'll see a sick drapey jacket here and there. This year, we've seen celebrities like Tyson Chandler adopt the trend.
Now before you cross this one off, remember that there's a difference between street goths and just gothic. Street goths, for instance, are not as extreme. And there's no black nail polish involved. It is one of the more riskier trends of the year, so you can always start off slow with one item of clothing at a time, such as a shirt.
All-Over Print Shirts
The all-over print is definitely a bold move, but you can pull it off by simply not caring about what other people think. If that doesn't work for you, go for the more obvious soltuion: keep your look simple, duh. Go for a bold print button-down or shirt like Russell Westbrook's Lacoste polo and balance it out with jeans or solid chinos—the red frames are optional. Let the shirt do all the talking.
