Rethinking Style: From Cargo Pants to Library Merch

The last days of summer are upon us, but fashion trends are far from cooling down. This week, the conversation circles around cargo pants, a nostalgic staple, and the need for libraries to step up their merchandise game.

Cargo Pants: A Timeless Favorite

As we transition into fall, cargo pants are making a notable comeback. Once a mainstay in my wardrobe, I reminisce about my collection of ripstop cargos from the Army-Navy store on Canal Street. Available in multiple colors, these pants held a crisp shape and looked even better after being worn in. Brands like Comoli, known for their coveted designs, and 18east, which specializes in utilitarian fashion, are leading the charge in this revival. If you're on the hunt for lightweight options, Lauren Manoogian’s pocketless cargos currently on sale are worth considering.

Common Projects: A Resurgence of Minimalism

In a surprising twist, Common Projects, once synonymous with the minimalist aesthetic in menswear, appears to be regaining popularity. After fading into the background as fashion trends shifted towards bolder styles, the brand is re-emerging in elite boutiques, suggesting that minimal sneakers are set for a comeback. Despite a lack of updates on their social media, the craftsmanship of Common Projects shoes remains top-notch, hinting at a renewed interest in understated luxury.

Library Merch: A Call for Creativity

On a more critical note, the state of merchandise from cultural institutions like libraries leaves much to be desired. Recently, a particularly uninspired hat associated with the NYPL sold out quickly, raising questions about the quality of designs being offered. Instead of settling for derivative products, libraries should enlist talented designers to elevate their merchandise. The blandness of current offerings reflects poorly on these respected institutions and misses an opportunity to foster engagement and support.

Source: www.highsnobiety.com