Trends for men’s prints and graphics for the Spring/Summer 2024 season are centred around the theme of “Protect & Connect”.
This theme celebrates the things that bind and support us – people, places, customs, cultures and communities.
On a functional level, this direction focuses on products that feed our sense of well-being and security.
This could take the form of healing and therapeutic designs that harness the power of colour, light and emotion, as well as more overtly practical items that are supremely adaptable.
On an aesthetic level, “Protect & Connect” is characterised by designs that are stripped back and soulful.
The direction balances the two, combining simple, sinuous and ergonomic forms with soft and natural materials, comforting textures, and warm, sun-tinged colours.
There is a clear pull towards nostalgia and familiarity in the theme, but it is not a backwards-looking trend; rather, it is about firmly moving forward to a fast-changing future by drawing on all that carries us and connects us.
Some action points for designers and brands to consider for their Menswear Spring/Summer 2024 collections
Embrace Regenerative Circularity: Focus on regenerative circularity by repurposing waste, designing for recyclability, and partnering with renewable energy-powered factories and local production lines to reduce carbon emissions and water usage in printing processes.
Incorporate Gardening-inspired Prints: Use foliage prints and fruit graphics inspired by gardening and nature care to update men’s staples and preppy styles. Explore regionally popular adventure activities for additional inspiration in graphic designs.
Evolve Interior-inspired Chintz Florals: Evolve the successful Cottagecore trend by incorporating interior-inspired chintz florals into designs. Collaborate with lifestyle or furnishing brands to expand matching designs into homewares.
Invest in Art and Craft: Invest in traditional art and craft techniques such as block printing, hand painting, and embroidery to add value and authenticity to products. Collaborate with local designers and artisans to achieve an authentically crafted aesthetic.
Focus on Healing and Calming Patterns: Replace traditional camouflage patterns with healing and calming patterns inspired by nature. Cater to the self-care demographic by offering designs that promote relaxation and tranquillity.
Prioritise Community Connection: Channel a sense of togetherness and community connection through meaningful slogans and graphics. Showcase support for local businesses, empower new voices, and celebrate traditional cultures through inclusive actions and initiatives.
Enhance Outdoor and Indoor Interests: Invest in consumers’ outdoor and indoor interests by incorporating elements of nature, wellness, and community into designs. Elevate products with an artistic touch to resonate with consumers seeking authentic and soulful experiences.
Conclusion
By incorporating these action points into their design and business strategies, brands can align with the “Protect & Connect” theme, catering to consumers’ desire for products and experiences that promote wellness, community, and sustainability.
Digital Fabric Solutions has some new additions to its fabric collection that can show off this trend with its vibrancy of print and superior print technology.
On the natural side, DFS Rayon Linen with a weight of 125 gsm, as well as our Cotton Slub 100 gsm, Poplin 110 gsm, and Rayon Viscose 115 gsm make great shirting fabrics for men.