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From designers and retailers to resellers, the industry is upbeat about the future
WWD asked industry figures the
following questions: What is going to be the driver of your business in the next six months? Where do you see the menswear market moving?
Ken Gushner
president, Boyds of Philadelphia I believe the driver(s) for our business will be the overall development of our new permanent store that we opened in the suburbs, and the continuation of men emerging from "stay and work at home" into the workplace and social arena.
As for where we see menswear moving in the next six months, I think the answer to that is embedded in my first answer: nothing revolutionary in terms of fashion but a thirst for quality, sophisticated merchandise presented with sincerity convenient service and enthusiasm.
Dana Katz
owner, Miltons
We expect the driving force to be primarily special-occasion needs where we outfit wedding parties, guests attending weddings and young men attending proms.
We see or hope that the menswear market will continue to show and gain acceptance for new silhouettes and models in the form of double-breasted suits and sport coats, pleated pants and looser, more relaxed garments. This will create obsolescence in wardrobes that have not changed for many years and stimulate more buying. In addition, we see an even greater proliferation of performance-piece goods and fabrications that lend themselves to comfort and utility.
Todd Snyder
We continue to see tremendous growth in our luxe essentials business with cashmere and Italian wools dominating this past season. As we go into 2023, we will see the growth of our seasonal programs like seaside linen and Japanese rayon dominate our business with the expansion of updated soft tailored and relaxed fits. We also see great success in expanding our retail presence across the country and as a result, see increased online revenue driven from these key growth markets, proving the overall health and strength of our business.
We are finally seeing a welcomed push away from fitted tailoring, streetwear and athleisure trends that dominated the market for years. There's a major return to sophisticated menswear and tailoring reminiscent of the '80s, but now in a reimagined way where texture, drape and volume are essential. I am...