Call it tribal, Native American or Southwestern – there is no denying that the menswear runways of Fall 2015 were full of traditional patterns. Observed as a cultural shift in the west for the past few seasons, a lot has been influenced from native tribes in terms of design and color. And being the most saturated in the American mainstream, this years inspiration seems to be coming from old southwestern arts and crafts. A little from the authentic kachina dolls of the Hopi and sandpaintings of the Navajo; beautiful pottery, particularly by Pueblo Indian artists; woven blankets and rugs, particularly by the Navajos; and many different styles of fine basketry and silver and turquoise jewelry of the past – the patterns on the ramp were handpicked from almost everywhere.
Mostly present in knitted sweaters, scarves and cardigans, the designs are evidently geometric, laid out in rather contemporary color palettes. A perfect combination with neutral lowers and basics to layer, the trend is pleasantly calling out for a globetrotter male, who is willing to experiment his style adopting from all things antecedent and the authentic overseas. But before you get flared and go out to buy, check your dad’s or granddad’s old wardrobe for a similar look, as you might just get lucky!