Suiting a Range of Tastes

From High-End Suits to Casual Chinos, Cotton Remains a Summer Favorite for Menswear.

Young, stylish women may be considered the “shopping experts,” but it turns out that men are increasingly savvy and sophisticated when it comes to their wardrobes. With summer’s hot and sticky weather almost here, new khakis and cotton suiting have hit the shelves, sure to “suit” a wide range of tastes.

American men own, on average, about 5 pairs of casual slacks, according to the Cotton Incorporated Lifestyle MonitorTM survey, and now is the perfect time to stock up on lightweight cotton options.

Linda DeFranco, Director, Product Trend Analysis, says cotton is ideal for summer because of its versatility. “With more men taking an interest in fashion, it’s no surprise that they’re becoming more conscious of choosing breathable, natural fibers like cotton for their summer wardrobes – and the market has responded, by offering quite a range of possibilities.”

The Relaxed Fit Chino from Lands’ End’s new Canvas line, for example, is soft, durable – and affordable, as is L.L. Bean’s Canvas Cloth pant, which is part of their new Signature line, designed by 2009 GQ/CFDA "Best New Menswear Designer" finalist Alex Carlton. Gap, on the other hand, takes a slightly rougher stance with its rip-and-repair cadet style pants, which are longer and leaner for a more modern cut. The denim detail in the repair at the knee adds a subtle, unexpected edge.

“Khakis and chinos, though, aren’t the only option for men this summer,” says DeFranco. “Cotton suiting, including formalwear, is lightweight and breathable, and comes in a range of styles and price points to suit every man’s taste.”

DeFranco points to Frankie Morello’s cotton blend tuxedo, which shows off cotton’s refined side, as well as Express’s office-appropriate look, a classic 2-button cotton sateen suit. Or lighten up with a pale blue cotton suit from Charles Tyrwhitt, for a preppier option that’s still timeless.

“Men are very concerned about comfort, especially in the summer, and these cotton options show that you can be both comfortable and fashionable,” DeFranco notes.

Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. growers of upland cotton and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, is the research and marketing company representing upland cotton. The Program is designed and operated to improve the demand for and profitability of cotton. [ http://www.cottoninc.com].