The fashion industry is founded on the somewhat obnoxious concept of planned obsolescence. By forcing consumers to chase trends, style houses ensure that people buy things they don't need. This approach stems from the women's ready-to-wear industry, in which trends come and go like the tides. But for menswear, it's largely counterproductive.
"Gentlemen's fashion is based on permanence and tradition," says Downes. "Chasing trends can be fun, but it should be done in moderation."
Case in point: those omnipresent multihued striped shirts so popular for the past few years and always worn with the tail hanging out.
"When every guy at a bar or party is wearing the same thing, it's a uniform," says Abboud of that thankfully flagging trend.
Rather than latching onto passing fads -- leaving you with a closet full of ugly bias-striped shirts -- invest in quality and timeless designs: Think spread-collar shirts from Thomas Pink (yes, you can pair them with jeans for a night out), Fred Perry polo shirts and Paul Smith suits. You'll always look sharp in them.
Trends are also a game for the young and fit. "When the bloom is off the rose and you have a bit of a belly, it's a good time to dress your age and invest in quality," says Downes.
DON'T FOLLOW FASHION TRENDS TOO CLOSELY. FOCUS INSTEAD ON DEVELOPING A PERMANENT SENSE OF YOUR OWN STYLE, BASED ON WHAT WORKS FOR YOU.
