5 Men Fashion Styles to Avoid in Winter 2011

4:18 pm Contributed by JW

With Christmas and New Year’s around the corner, you know it’s that time of the year again. No, we are not talking about presents and fireworks. It’s that dreaded onslaught of bitter winter weather and a time when even the most fashion conscious men are taking a hiatus on style. You can opt for comfort but let’s not dismiss fashion entirely shall we? Consider this a guide men fashion trends for 2011 winter you can avoid in pursuit of warmth and comfort during the frigid months ahead.

1. Patterned Chunky Knits
Over-sized chunky details on sweaters are all the rage this season, making it one of the strongest trends to hit Fall/Winter 2011 runways for women and men alike. Such knits are distressed in such a way from larger than life cabling to exaggerated ribbing, leaving wearers to think that this might just be hand-knitted. But, the look can make you look bulkier than you actually are. So, err on the side of caution with this trend, for those of you who anticipate to put on some holiday weight.

2. Oversized Coats
A well lined coat is a staple during the winter, an essential to brave the cold. We’re still seeing plenty of exquisitely tailored coats for Fall/Winter 2011. But, the oversized trend has made its mark on coats. At the Acne show, coats that are way past knee length billows behind the model as they strut their way down the runway. I ask myself, are these appropriate for the winter, especially when you’re trudging through inch deep snow.

3. Men in Black Fashion?
Hues of dark color such as black have always been a frequent element for winter. Breaking free of the shackles of traditional winter palette, designers are showing an influx of bright colors in their 2011 collection. So, ditch the black ensemble and go for an outfit with a pop of color to brighten up those gloomy winter days.

4. Need flamboyant headwear?
Novelty hats have become a thing of the runway, providing necessary theatricality that elevates the collection to another level. Note, Agnes B or Alexander Mcqueen’s Fall/Winter 2011 menswear show where pirate and military head gears are heavily accentuated. At risk of looking like you’re heading for a Halloween party, let’s keep the winter hats in check and stick with your basic ski caps, fedoras, newsboy hats and bowlers.

5. Your Favorite Suede!
For those of you who receive snow during the winter, avoid suede at all cost! Be it a badass suede jacket, suede boots or chic suede pants. It’s a known fact that suede loses its integrity when worn through damp weather, i.e. rain or snow.