Tailoring for Men’s Fashion: What’s New?
Introduction
For decades, men’s tailoring was synonymous with formality and tradition—classic suits, standard cuts, and conservative styles. But in recent years, men’s fashion has undergone a significant transformation. Tailoring has evolved from strict and structured to expressive and experimental. At Delight Fashion School, we prepare students to master traditional techniques while embracing the exciting innovations shaping modern menswear.
This article explores what’s new in men’s tailoring, how it’s changing globally and in Kenya, and how our students are being trained to lead in this dynamic space.
- Modern Silhouettes and Relaxed Fits
Contemporary menswear is moving away from overly tight or stiff silhouettes. Today’s trends include:
- Relaxed tailoring: Looser suits with broader shoulders and softer construction
- Cropped trousers and slightly oversized blazers
- Unstructured jackets that allow more movement and comfort
Our students are taught to adapt classic tailoring to suit modern body shapes and style preferences, giving clients a refined yet relaxed look.
- Bold Use of Color and Fabric
Gone are the days of plain black, grey, and navy. Men’s tailoring now includes:
- Pastels, earth tones, and jewel colors
- Textured fabrics like corduroy, velvet, and printed cotton
- Locally inspired materials such as kitenge, kikoy, and African wax prints
At Delight, students learn how to select and combine bold fabrics to create statement pieces while maintaining tailoring integrity.
- Fusion of Streetwear and Tailoring
A new generation of designers is blending tailoring with streetwear, leading to:
- Suits worn with sneakers or T-shirts
- Tailored joggers and drawstring-waist trousers
- Hooded blazers and asymmetrical cuts
We train students to experiment with hybrid styles that resonate with urban markets and younger demographics.
- Personalized and Bespoke Details
Modern tailoring emphasizes individuality. Clients now expect:
- Custom fits that reflect their lifestyle and preferences
- Monograms, special linings, and signature buttoning
- Unique styling like contrast lapels or side-fastening closures
Delight students are trained in bespoke tailoring practices, measuring and modifying patterns to suit individual client needs.
- Functional Design and Smart Tailoring
Today’s menswear also incorporates function and innovation, including:
- Stretch fabrics for comfort and mobility
- Hidden pockets, zip details, and convertible pieces
- Wrinkle-resistant materials for travel and daily use
Our curriculum integrates these functional elements, teaching students how to design for the modern, multitasking man.
- Cultural and Afro-Inspired Tailoring
There’s growing pride in African identity in fashion. Men’s tailoring now includes:
- Blazers made with kitenge or Maasai shuka accents
- Mandarin collars, dashiki cuts, and short kaftan suits
- Blending western tailoring structure with African aesthetics
Delight Fashion School places strong emphasis on Afrocentric design, teaching students how to incorporate cultural heritage into tailored menswear.
- Sustainable and Ethical Tailoring
Modern clients are increasingly eco-conscious. This has led to:
- Use of sustainable fabrics like organic cotton and linen
- Emphasis on durable construction over disposable fashion
- Upcycled tailoring, where old garments are redesigned into new pieces
Our school includes sustainability modules that challenge students to create stylish menswear while minimizing waste.
- Tailoring for All Ages and Genders
Men’s tailoring is no longer limited by age or gender:
- Youth tailoring is gaining popularity for proms, graduations, and weddings
- Gender-neutral styles and silhouettes challenge traditional norms
- Elder clients are seeking comfort-forward yet stylish suits
Students are taught to tailor for a wide variety of clients, broadening their market and inclusivity.
Conclusion
Men’s tailoring today is more exciting and diverse than ever before. It blends tradition with modernity, functionality with flair, and culture with creativity. At Delight Fashion School, we train future designers and tailors to master the classic rules—and then break them with purpose. Our graduates leave with the knowledge, skill, and innovation mindset to redefine what menswear looks like in Kenya and beyond.
