Concerns have been raised surrounding the future of menswear fashion shows as more designers opt for multi-gendered showcases rather than dedicated runways.
Menswear shows, which are typically held months before their female counterparts are becoming few and far between, with 10 designers in the most recent Milan men’s fashion week opting out of the event including big names Calvin Klein, Ermenegildo Zenga, and Bottega Veneta.
“Brands are focussing on what has the highest return on investment,” said Mario Ortelli, an analyst at Bernstein.
Because of menswear’s inability to compete with both sales and international attention, designers around the world are moving to include their menswear ranges in their larger shows to cut costs amidst a global spending slump.
“Although menswear has acquired more of a standing over the years, the women’s shows are still the most important. Many brands are focussing on women,” said Vick Mihaci, president of Elite Model Management.
Both Gucci and Tom Ford have announced they will be combining their men’s and women’s runways, allowing buyers and customers to view the collections simultaneously as to get a better grasp on the season as a whole.
