Does the menswear industry matter?

Gabe Alonso Style Editor

In the words of one Wayne Campbell, “Uh, chyeah!” An interesting article on Forbes.com cites a study featured by WWD (Women’s Wear Daily) on the buying habits of men these days. As men, we will not be ignored.

So, check this out. WWD did this crazy survey in 2010 of men who earn $100,000. Say what?! I know. But the findings hold true for those of us still working up the food chain. Because it doesn’t matter if you make $40k or $100K, this economy still sucks for all of us. Men continue to have the same types of buying tendencies and style habits.

Screen shot 2011 03 15 at 12.45.48 AM Does the menswear industry matter?

image from The Sartorialist

The first point made is how men are starting to appreciate and pay attention to trends more than ever. The author of the Forbes post (a lady) was quite happy with this finding. And I quote:

From a personal perspective, I am very pleased at this upward trend. There is nothing better than seeing a man in a well-fitting suit. A good suit can seem to make the man look wealthier, smarter, nicer, and definitely more successful.

BOOM. You see when I tell you guys how the fit is tantamount to everything? THIS is why, for these types of reactions. You’ll receive these not only from the ladies, but your peers as well (though obviously it’s the fairer sex you should be most interested in having such reaction. Or not. Whatever you preference is. Anyways.). Perception is everything, be mindful of your appearance and people will mind you more. Trust me.

Over the last year or so, there have been a lot of men’s specialty online stores and brands popping up. Interestingly, men’s patronage of these type sof places increased almost 3% from 2010 to 2011. While department stores are still rife with the majority of male patronage, I think it’s quite obvious that men are looking for a place to get much more specific, tailored clothing, as well as a specific type of experience. Our natural inclinations to bond over similar hobbies and interests make going to a men’s specialty store a bonding experience. It’s not as uncomfortable bullshittin’ with your buddies about shoes than it is asking a female clerk to help you find your size. I get it, we all get it. The survey proves it. Things, they are a-changin’.

Bottom-line? Men are getting more and more interested in clothes. Furthermore, they’re getting more interested in clothes that fit them well – even their casual outfits. It’s about time we all start reevaluating how we’ve been dressing and start thinking how we can dress to impress 24/7. It’s not what you wear, but how you wear it most times that makes the difference. Clean yourselves up gentlemen.

Looks like a lot of dudes are already doing so.

Does the Men’s Wear Industry Matter? – [Forbes.com]

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