Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo
Style

How Dateable is Spring 2013 Menswear?

Whoever said that clothes don’t make the man is clearly lying. While we collegiettes are attracted to looks, ambition, and a sparkly personality, it’s time to be honest: we also dream of finding a guy with a sense of style. Think Joseph Gordon Levitt in 500 Days of Summer (my personal favorite), Chuck Bass from Gossip Girl, or Ryan Gosling in Crazy, Stupid, Love. Unless you’re living on another planet (if so, take me to the mothership), most of our lovely college bros don’t stalk style websites or secretly watch live streams of the latest runway shows during that oh-so-boring lecture. It’s sad, but we’ve all accepted it. With that in mind, what are we supposed to think of the latest menswear collections? While the fiercest fashionistos adore the testosterone-friendly pieces,do they reflect the common man? For a fun (keyword: fun) recap, we’re rating some of the latest menswear collections based on datability. Rates are on a scale from 1 to 10– 1 means undateable , while 10 is code for “Call Me Maybe.”

(Photo)

[pagebreak]
Paul Smith: 8

(Photo)

Call me crazy, but I kind of love this collection. Sir Paul Smith (that’s right, Sir) incorporates forward-thinking looks with pieces for the more conservative. Though the colorful suits scream Brad Goreski (love him), the neutral shirts are ideal for typical men. If I went on a date with some who rocked an ensemble from this collection, I’d be one happy fashionista.
[pagebreak]
Burberry Prorsum: 6

(Photo)

 Leave it to Christopher Bailey to create polished suits, snuggle-worthy sweaters, and masculine blazers. Can we say date me? Burberry Prorsum’s inherent British inspiration is a dream for collegiettes everywhere. Prince Harry, Andrew Garfield, Alex Pettyfer, the One Direction boys…need I say more? As for the scads of metallic, it’s not boyfriend material (pun intended). I don’t know about you, but I’d be a little bit jealous if I was on a date with a guy who had shinier ensemble!
[pagebreak]
 Alexander McQueen: 7

(Photo)

Is it just me, or does this collection look like a Chuck Bass/ The Great Gatsby hybrid? Between the sharp, monochromatic suits and retro cardigans, how could you not swoon over these pieces? The frequent bursts of color is innovative, but not too overbearing. But let’s be honest, I’d probably steal that palm-esque overcoat for myself!
[pagebreak]
Thom Browne: 1

(Photo)

While I adore how funny this satirical, preppy collection is, these pieces are giving me a headache. Maybe some of the pieces would work as separates. No, I take that back: it’s way too bright…even for the summer!
[pagebreak]
Band of Outsiders: 9

(Photo)

Every season, Scott Sternberg sends undeniably urban apparel down the runway; however, this menswear collection has a hint of prepster. While our male college counterparts may not wear a printed suit, I could totally picture a collegient wearing these pieces separately. Strolling to classes in a cozy, white sweater? Yes. Lounging around the dorm in a nautical pullover? Absolutely. Heading to the internship in a grey blazer and matching trousers? Check. Walking home from the gym in a cream sweat suit? Need I say more? Though this collection may take more risks than the typical boy does, you must admit that it adheres to the bro-code of style.
[pagebreak]
Givenchy: 2

(Photo)

Riccardo Tisci is a sartorial genius; however, I’m not digging this collection. This may sound bizarre, but I don’t think skirt-pant combinations and muscle tees with trains are dateable. As much as I love reviving the 90’s, this just reminds me of grunge gone wrong.
[pagebreak]
Viktor & Rolf: 6

(Photo)

 So maybe you don’t swoon over a man in sequins (I don’t blame you), but this collection is pretty cool. I love the mix between serious suits and fun pops of silver. Take note, Christopher Bailey: Viktor & Rolf’s use of metallic ties is something we can work with! Additionally, the strong blazers with poppy lapels are to die for—the perfect dose of creativity without upstaging your outfit. Though I usually despise fashion-forward hats on guys, I’m kind of obsessed with the hats in this collection…urban chic! 
[pagebreak]
Louis Vuitton: 4

(Photo)

Though some of the suits and sweaters are super masculine and sleek, others looks are not very dateable. To be honest, I’d be a little nervous if a guy showed up to a date in a parachute-esque jacket. While the structured coats and vests would be awesome for fashionistas, I’m not sure collegients will love this trend. On another note, nobody should wear patchwork denim…ever.
[pagebreak]
Jean Paul Gaultier: 3

(Photo)

If the M.C. Hammer-esque pants aren’t enough to make you cringe, maybe the man skirts will. Although the tuxes are perfectly executed, I’m not so sure how I feel about those printed pants. At the same time, I’m curious to see how a fashionisto would style this collection. Know of any risk-taking gents?

Here’s the million dollar question: what do you think of these collections? Are they dateable or way too fashionable? Sound off below! 

Kelsey is a senior at Boston University, studying Magazine Journalism  in the College of Communication. As a magazine junkie and fashion fanatic, she loves being a part of the Her Campus team! At BU, Kelsey is president of Ed2010 at Boston University.  She has interned for Time Out New York, Lucky, Anthropologie, and Marie Claire. Kelsey also has a fashion blog, The Trendologist, where she covers the latest trends, fashion shows, and red carpet reports. When she isn't busy, Kelsey loves hanging out with her friends and family, shopping, reading style blogs, going for a nice jog, listening to music, creating baked goods in the kitchen, watching movies, and eating tons of frozen yogurt and sushi! After graduation, Kelsey hopes to work as an editor for a fashion magazine. Follow Kelsey on Twitter and Instagram at @kmulvs and don't  forget to check out her "Catwalk to Campus" blog posts!