In the urban market which sets the style direction for a powerful audience of consumers, the signs of a more individual expression is palpable. Moving away from the hardened identity of the dark sweatsuits and indistinct outerwear, hip hoppers and city dwellers are again embracing preppy styles that speaks volumes for the wearer. The arrival of vibrant stripes and tangy-colored polo shirts (Tommy Hilfiger, Nautica) that burned up the streets of New York this summer is a forecast to some of the changes to come. This is where men’s embrace of their individuality will take hold. They’ll make bold pronouncements through colors and prints — not only in clothing but in accessories, like trainers and bags. Good examples of this bold accessorizing are Nike‘s gold Air Force Ones, JB Classics couture trainers in striking color combinations, limited edition trainers from Puma, Adidas, etc and Comme des Garcons’ gold backpack — even Jansport‘s new line of embellished backpacks is a part of the trend.

A year ago we reported on the downsizing of hip-hoppers’ clothing, which forecast this emergence of the individual, by showing the body, instead of effacing it with unnecessary shapeless fabric.

P. Diddy, the undisputed trendsetter, has taken to wearing bespoke suits, and is also putting a new face on style in this market. What says self expression better than showing your best side to the world? In the case of Outkast and the Black Eyed Peas, showing your madcap, unbridled styling influences is another approach. Their appeal to the younger generation to wear whatever they please will be a boon for the alternative styles.

Brands like FAL by Jeffrey Grubb and Hommebody are taking the pared down success of their leisurewear and are injecting it with personalized girly details: a ruffle here, a satin roping there, and so forth. Fitting in is falling out of vogue, and dressing uniquely is the new leisurewear.

-Jason Campbell

Photos: Tommy Hilfiger

Black Eye Peas

FAL by Jeffrey Grubb