Men’s fashion in Milan is undergoing a transformation as it moves away from the dominance of streetwear and towards a more formal, dressed-up style. This shift was evident in the recently unveiled Spring/Summer 2024 collections at Milan Fashion Week, with designers such as Dolce & Gabbana, Neil Barrett, and MSGM leading the way.
British designer Neil Barrett, who has been based in Italy for over three decades, presented a collection that perfectly blended understated elegance with a relaxed, laid-back vibe. His collection rejuvenated the functional minimalism that made his label popular in the 90s. The runway showcased durable leather boots, jacket-and-pleated-shorts ensembles, and lightweight sport tops. Barrett’s meticulous attention to garment construction, details, and material choices was evident, as he incorporated high-tech Japanese fabrics and blended fibers into his designs. He ingeniously integrated white t-shirts into his two-in-one items, creating a peek-a-boo effect under sweaters, gilets, jackets, and shirts. Modern touches were added with raincoats featuring zips and satin lapels on gabardine overcoats. The color palette featured a muted yet elegant blueish grey accentuated with pops of yellow. Barrett also slightly broadened the cuts of his designs to cater to different body types, aiming to return to his minimalist roots while offering more mature options.
Meanwhile, MSGM, founded by Massimo Giorgetti, presented a collection that symbolized a fresh start. Models donned raincoats and dark suits paired with darted trousers and flowing two-button jackets. Light cotton shirts featuring striped patterns or offset collars added sophistication to the looks. Giorgetti drew inspiration from his recent trip to Tanzania, capturing the transition from youth to adulthood in his collection. The color palette was subdued, featuring dark shades, beiges, browns, and washed-out pastel pink and mauve. While sportswear elements were still present, the outfits had a dressier feel, including jacket and shorts sets, cargo trousers, and smart long-sleeved polos. The emphasis was on materials and dyeing techniques, resulting in unique textures and effects.
Both Neil Barrett and MSGM epitomize the shift in men’s fashion towards a more mature and contemporary aesthetic, away from streetwear. These designers understand the evolving desires of their customers and offer well-tailored and stylish options that are effortless to wear. Their collections prove that formal wear doesn’t have to be dull and can be infused with modernity and elegance.
Neil Barrett’s collections are entirely made in Italy and can be found in various retailers and monobrand stores, primarily in Asia, China, and South Korea. MSGM, on the other hand, remains a youthful and contemporary label that appeals to a wide range of age groups. Giorgetti’s commitment to producing quality, well-tailored products is evident in his embrace of made in Italy garments.
Milan Fashion Week continues to showcase the evolving trends and styles in menswear. The designers have declared the end of the streetwear era and have embraced a new era of dressed-up, contemporary formal wear. Men now have the opportunity to revive the timeless classics of menswear while maintaining a fun and youthful approach to fashion.
For more information on Neil Barrett’s collections, visit their website [here](https://www.neilbarrett.com/). To explore the world of MSGM, check out their official website [here](https://www.msgm.it/).
