The menswear masterclass in minimalist style

The 1990s have been an endless source of inspiration for designers in recent years, whether it’s been a nod to the grunge, heavy metal or rave scenes, or a lust for the luxury logo. Entering 2021, it has been the decade’s preoccupation with minimalism, driven largely by creatives such as fashion designer Jil Sander and designer John Pawson, that has been ticking style boxes. 

For spring, menswear adopted a pared-back, precise and uniform-inspired approach to dressing. Prada presented straightforward, unostentatious clothing as a casual antidote to an increasingly complex world. Suits and overcoats were imagined in a trio of charcoal tones, and fastened with a fuss-free row of buttons. When teaming with a smart shirt, be sure to style it sans tie.

At Jil Sander, precision was also paramount, and silhouettes were slightly elongated and square as the brand’s creative directors, husband-and-wife duo Lucie and Luke Meier, unveiled unlined wool blazers with generous pockets that sophisticatedly skimmed the body, offering an informality well suited to today’s largely office-free existence. 

At Celine, a versatile accessory was essential – one that was both refined and roomy, with graphic details. The French maison’s largest version of its signature ‘16’ bag features striking metal hardware and a wide detachable shoulder strap, for maximum carrying ease. The only accessory you need to carry inside it? Direct your attention to a pair of Lindberg’s ultra-lightweight titanium sunglasses, stripped back in design details save for their aviator-style frames. The styles recall the optical preferences of chart-riding noughties Britpop stars. This is minimalism with maximum impact.

INFORMATION

This article originally appeared in the March 2021 issue of Wallpaper* (W*263) – available for free download here