The fashion world is abuzz with anticipation for the spring 2026 season, and GQ has unveiled its predictions for the menswear trends that will dominate the upcoming year. Through a unique collaboration with four prominent New Yorkers at different stages of their careers, the magazine offers a glimpse into the styles that will define the season. From the exuberant colors of Auralee to the quiet luxury of The Row, these brands and their designers are set to make a lasting impact on the industry.
Auralee: A Fusion of High Fashion and Everyday Style
Tokyo-based designer Ryota Iwai of Auralee has crafted a unique blend of high fashion and everyday wear. His spring collection showcases exuberant colors, building on the label's rapid rise in popularity over the past half-decade. Iwai's designs are thoughtful yet accessible, appealing to both the fashion-conscious and those seeking a touch of sophistication in their daily attire.
The Art of Fundamentals: Daniel Boulud and Rōze Traore
A shared reverence for the fundamentals of French cuisine unites renowned chefs Daniel Boulud and Rōze Traore. Traore, known for his private menus served to celebrities like Rick Owens and Dior, emphasizes the importance of classic French cooking as a foundation. Boulud agrees, highlighting the necessity of understanding the basics before creating one's own style. This philosophy extends to menswear, where a deep appreciation for fundamentals is key to crafting timeless and elegant looks.
Gucci's Raffish Twist on Italian Glamour
Demna, the artistic director of Gucci, has introduced a softer, more raffish take on the brand's signature Italian glamour. His debut collection features reimagined spins on classic Gucci tropes, such as pristine leather jackets and bootcut jeans adorned with the brand's iconic horsebit hardware. Demna's instincts suggest a shift towards the café racer silhouette, a sleeker style with deep roots in British motorcycle culture, marking a departure from the Brando-esque Perfecto.
Layering and Style: Wythe's Americana with a Twist
Peter Middleton, a former Ralph Lauren alum, founded Wythe in 2019 with a focus on plainspoken Americana. The brand's current vision encompasses a range of styles, from shearling ranch jackets and snap-front Western shirts to heirloom-grade roper boots and rock-god leather jeans. Matt Sweeney, a musician with a diverse background, credits his friendship with Eric Rhinestone for a fresh perspective on music and style, showcasing the brand's ability to blend classic Americana with modern influences.
Quiet Luxury and Electric Trends: The Row's Minimalist Elegance
The Row, founded by Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen, embodies quiet luxury with its minimalist and understated approach to menswear. The brand's signature pieces, such as roomy pleated trousers and airy poplin shirts, are favored by discerning tycoons and downtown cool-kids alike. The Olsen twins' rare interviews and the brand's subtle yet powerful aesthetic reflect a belief that taste speaks louder than money. Trends like longer, looser shorts and the off-kilter combination of socks with sandals are embraced, adding a touch of slacker-chic to the collection.
As the fashion industry eagerly awaits the spring 2026 season, these brands and their designers are poised to shape the trends that will define the year. From Auralee's exuberant colors to The Row's quiet luxury, the upcoming season promises a diverse range of styles that cater to various tastes and personalities, ensuring that every man can find his unique expression through fashion.
