Blacks Says Better Fueled by Denim, Casual
SAN FRANCISCO – Blacks Retail Analysis says that denim and sportcoat/casual pant combinations were the strength of the better menswear during the spring.
Denim sales were up more than 70% over the prior year, while suit sales managed a 0.2% pickup. Neckwear sales were 8.5% below year-ago levels, while dress shirts managed a 1.2% gain.
“The casual dressing trend continues to march on,” said Steve Pruitt, senior consultant at Blacks. “This trend is not new and there is no reason or data to indicate a change in direction.”
However, lifted by sales of sportcoats, jackets and outerwear were up 20%, with the teaming of the casual, constructed jacket and sport-casual slacks remaining popular among upscale menswear shoppers.
“This look moves casual dressing across all boundaries,” Pruitt said. “Pair the casual jacket and sport pant with a fancy pocket square and you’ll have a well-dressed man.”
