Preview: Fall menswear a landscape of handsome neutrals

Perry Ellis

The average guy will find plenty in stores this fall to please him, the sort of dark, masculine clothes that are impeccable tailored and easy to wear.

Elie Tahari

Black is the new black, which should excite guys who make it their year-‘round go-to. Shades of gray and browns complement the dominance of neutrals through the coming fall and winter, with the fashion landscape rising just above tedium with bold plaids and other prints and accent colors such as bold greens and rich purples.

Tommy Hilfger

But make no mistake — the emphasis on underwhelming earth tones doesn’t mean menswear will bore anyone to tears. The styles that better American designers have stitched up and retailers are serving up feature body-conscious, fine tailoring and interesting details that present a more refined image.

Tweeds dominate in pants and flannels continue to make a comeback in shirts. The velvet jacket may rule as the must-have casual-meets-dressy garment of the season. Perry Ellis, Boss Hugo Boss and Dolce & Gabbana are among the brands weighing in with an option, and Burberry even has a rich velvet suit due to arrive at retail soon.

The three-piece-suit returns as a major player in menswear for fall and winter, worn to the nines with a crisp shirt and a rich necktie or more casually with a turtleneck and pocket square. Lapels on the vest are an essential tailored touch.

Buckler

Layering is as much a part of winter as bare trees, and outerwear is bigger in proportion with luxury accents such as fur trim and buckles. From dressy to casual, many of the season’s looks are anchored by large boots that balance an almost nerdy vibe with a tough, modern edge.