In a recent statement, Ermenegildo Zegna, CEO of the esteemed Italian luxury menswear brand, affirmed that reports of the demise of the suit have been greatly exaggerated. While recognizing the evolving fashion landscape, Zegna emphasized that the suit remains a relevant and essential item in men’s wardrobes. However, he boldly stated that the tie has lost its significance and is no longer a necessary component of men’s formal attire.
During the Financial Times’ business of luxury conference, Zegna made his stance clear, stating, “Let me be clear – the suit is not dead. But the tie is!” Instead, he highlighted knitwear as the modern alternative for adding sophistication and style to a suit. Zegna also drew attention to the growing popularity of luxury leisurewear, signaling a shift towards more casual and comfortable clothing choices.
Even before the pandemic, suit sales were already facing challenges. However, the global health crisis further exacerbated the situation as lockdowns and remote work arrangements eliminated the need for traditional business attire. This led to a vigorous debate about the future of the suit, resulting in major brands like Hugo Boss shifting their focus towards casual wear. Marks & Spencer even chose to stop stocking suits in many of its stores, and suits are no longer included in the UK’s basket of goods used to calculate the Consumer Prices Index (CPI). Nevertheless, some suit specialists have managed to thrive despite these challenges. ASOS, for instance, reported selling an impressive 280,000 suits during the AW21/22 season.
Interestingly, a consumer survey conducted by Charles Tyrwhitt last year unveiled that the classic suit and shirt combination still holds significant value in making a strong first impression. Over 65% of the men surveyed believed that a well-fitted suit is powerful, with nearly a third stating that they feel more productive when dressed smartly. Notably, the tie did not emerge as a crucial factor in the perception of professionalism. As hybrid working models gain acceptance, people are adopting a hybrid approach to business attire, utilizing alternative accessories to complete their suits.
Zegna provided further insights on how to make a suit feel less formal and more approachable. One suggestion he made is pairing a suit with sneakers, injecting a burst of color and a sense of fun into the ensemble. This blending of formal and casual elements reflects the changing attitudes towards workwear and formerly strict formal occasions.
In conclusion, Ermenegildo Zegna’s remarks offer a valuable perspective on the state of fashion. While the suit may undergo adaptations in response to changing trends and work environments, it continues to serve as a symbol of elegance and sophistication. Zegna’s declaration regarding the tie indicates a significant turning point in men’s fashion, emphasizing the ascent of knitwear as a fashionable alternative. The fashion landscape continually evolves, and it is essential for brands and consumers alike to embrace these changes and discover new ways to express their individual style while respecting the demands of a modern lifestyle.
Useful Links:
1. GQ: How to Wear Sneakers with Suits
2. Vogue UK: The Death of the Suit – What Next?
