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Stripes are also making a comeback, PrinceofWales checks, and waistcoats with fob chains, we'll all bewearing'botanical' suits.

"This year we're already seeing a move away from this cut asmenbegin to embrace a more relaxed suit," . "They will still beslimfitted, but certainly not skin tight. And in line with theslightlylooser fit, we'll also be seeing wider lapels and longerjacketsand pants."

there were a lot of bright blue fabrics around. It was the yearofthe bright navy suit. That is on the way out as we movetowardsgreyer colours, especially charcoal, and I think men willstart tolook towards various shades of olive green as well."
Mix and match

Mixing it up could also be on the cards, as men experimentwithdifferent fabrics and textures, often at the same time. "Whystickto a suit of just one fabric or colour?" "Pair a navy blazerwithgrey or charcoal trousers for a more individual look. It'sallabout finding your own individual style. Stripes, patterns,subtleweaves; it's all possible."

suits will remain slim, but not skinny, as people looktowardscomfort and a more conservative aesthetic. Shades of emeraldandkhaki green are going to be popular, as well as earthy tones(thinksand), monochromatic greys and muted blues.

"As for fabrics, I'm seeing bold windowpanes andvintage-inspiredchecks for suits, and wool/silk blends forjacketing."

"Suit fashion is a seven-year cycle,I believe it's driven by thebigmanufacturers to keep people buying their products. Thegeneralpublic suddenly believes that the tight-fitting jacket theyarewearing just doesn't cut the mustard anymore, and so they feeltheneed to buy something else.

"The tight-fitting suit with its slim, short trousers has beenontrend for a while now, and so we'll see things getting wideragain.On the catwalks in Europe we're even seeing bell bottoms. Idon'tthink we'll quite get to that here, but suits will definitelygeteasier; lapels wider, and more room across the backandshoulders."


Classic cuts

if you want to get off the fashion merry-go-round, your onlyansweris to buy a well-made suit in a classic cut that will spantime.What does such a suit look like? Take a look at Cary Grant inthe1930s and 40s.

"Jackets are fitted but with more room in the chest and acrosstheback," he says. "And they are of a sufficient length that youcanjust cup your hands under the skirt of the coat. Lapels shouldbearound 10cm wide and trousers are easier around the front, withoneor two pleats, and little wider in the knee. The cuff shouldbearound 17.5 inches."

steer clear of so-called trendy colours and patterns and optinsteadfor a classic navy blue and a mid-grey in a bird's eye orflannelfabric.

"In Australia's climate you can keep the material quitelightweight,no more than 280 grams per metre. Choose a wool thatis soft andlight, but durable, and the suit should last you up to20years."