While it’s hard to point out the exact moment when the army influence began affecting street-wear trends, it might be easier to assume that the ongoing affair between military and fashion spans its long-lasting existence over many decades. Never really gone for good, the military aesthetic is constantly determining the shapes of the current trends, evolving in order to translate to modern, but holding tightly to its powerful roots.
Looking at men’s fashion trends in spring 2013, camo prints remain steadfast amoung the list. Read on for more, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and subscribe to our newsletter to stay up with all the latest.
Camo print for spring 2013
Among the styles that managed to successfully energize the fashionable menswear department, camo stands tall and still confident. The timeless print, often perceived as unconventional and bold is being reenvisioned for spring 2013 appearing more polished, more daring yet effortlessly cool, having power houses like Dries Von Noten, Valentino and Commes Des Garcons advocating for its militaristic appeal.
Camo print on the runway at Valentino S/S ’13 men’s
Giving the fact that we are talking about a print that represents a rather constant choice on the fashion map, it’s important for you to acknowledge how exactly did the camo print trend embrace change once it crossed over into spring / summer 2013. Even if a lot of last season’s garments might still prove themselves useful, here are the main elements that will highlight your camo outfit as relevant this season:
- Lightweight fabrics, key to summer comfort
- Standout camo prints that steer away from the classic black and green combo
- Relaxed tailoring
- Sporty/casual sillouethes
Camo print on the runway at Dries Van Noten S/S ’13 men’s and Qasimi Homme S/S ’13
The camouflage look: how to pull it off
Although we’re talking camo, a print men actually feel comfortable and confident wearing, this doesn’t automatically mean that patterns are the easiest to pull off in a flawless manner. Without loosing its essence and by strictly focusing on its strengths, here’s how to make the most of camouflage prints:
- Moderation is fundamental so avoid a head-to-toe camo outfit unless you feel like making a statement
- For the best use of camo, pair the military print against sleek neutrals
- Search for timeless camouflage items that will blend in with the rest of your wardrobe
- Always bet on cool camo accessories for a subtle take on the trend – think pocket squares, bow ties, boots or commuter bags
- Think of camouflage as the highlight of an outfit, so do team it with classic items
- Bet on layers of camo print for a double take on the trend
Camo print on the runway at Dries Van Noten S/S ’13 men’s
Traditional versus modern
When people in general think camouflage, the traditional lizard, woodland or European patterns come to mind, dressed in combinations of army green, khaki, black, sand and brown. While this particular type of print is still relevant due to its association with the military uniforms, designers this spring love experimenting with variations of colour, reimagining unique and even abstracted camouflage patterns by playing upon different scales and by clashing prints (think leopard-camo). Either you plan on sticking with tradition, or following onto the path of novelty this season, you’ll still look suitable and right on trend.
Traditional versus modern camo prints on the runway at Comme Des Garcons S/S ’13 men’s and Kenzo S/S ’13 men’s
Camo print: wardrobe staples for spring 2013
If you plan on refreshing your wardrobe or introduce the camo print to your closet, here are the staples worth investing in this spring. A camouflage print men’s bomber jacket will easily be complemented by a plain t-shirt, a pair of basic trousers and a pair of sneakers allowing you to casually sport the trend.
In that same manner, a pair of camo trousers or shorts can be turned into a smart statement if paired to a classic button-down, a tailored jacket/blazer and a pair of sandals/loafers according to the occasion.
Camo print staples on the runway at Valentino S/S ’13 men’s, Dries Van Noten S/S ’13 men’s and J Crew S/S ’13 men’s
A camo ribbed knit represents a cool alternative for the colder days and nights, especially when brought to life by a bold complementary color choice such as orange. In the outerwear department camo is better used as a subtle accent, enriching the sleeves, the collar or the hemlines of your lightweight coats.
Camo print staples on the runway at Pringle of Scotland S/S ’13 men’s, Kenzo S/S ’13 men’s and John Galliano S/S ’13 men’s
