Men's Short Suits for Spring?
One of the trends seen in many lines for Spring 2007 was the men's business suit with shorts, rather than pants. The Perry Ellis design, pictured, illustrates the idea. Designers love it and seem to be convinced that it is the wave of the future.
Not one to dash their hopes, but this is one trend that won't carry over once it is off the runway. Men don't want to wear them and the buyers for stores like Neiman Marcus and Saks know it; the suits are being passed over at almost every level. While the idea of being cool and comfortable in a professional environment is appealing, it doesn't seem like the business community is ready to embrace the business short look.
The two reasons that men can't wear the short suits are (1) a lack of appropriate footwear and (2) hairy legs.
In reference to the first issue, sock-less loafers do not look professional and socks and dress shoes do not look good with shorts. There is no popularly accepted footwear for men to pair with suits like these in the office. The second issue is bigger. The young models the designers use have minimal body hair and very well-toned legs. The average middle-aged business man, who would have to accept the trend for it to become acceptable office attire, does not necessarily have these two physical characteristics - and we have a hard time believing that either leg-shaving or stockings will become popular for this demographic.
As an alternative to traditional suits, this trend is one that doesn't have a (pants) leg to stand on.
