In the market: spring ’12 checklist

It’s that time of year again: there’s a slight chill in the air, pumpkin beer is on tap at Brooklyn Brewery and the sunless mornings make an early morning workout that much harder to wake up for. It’s also the time when New York press previews are in full effect. And although at MR we’re anxiously awaiting fall ’12, we just can’t help but get that last look at spring before hibernating for the winter.

Retailers have been searching the market for interesting knits. We’ve loving these lightweight styles from Shades of Grey by Micah Cohen and Fred Perry Laurel Collection.

Colored denim showed up in almost every collection for spring. These muted pastels from Diesel are a great way to spice up the old denim wall.

There’s been a ton of buzz around swimwear from traditional menswear stores to contemporary ones. Original Penguin took notice and is now offering the category year-round rather than just in the spring collection. Reyn Spooner is another one of those versatile collections that works for both traditional and contemporary stores depending on the buy.

Retailers are reporting that varsity jackets are on fire for fall and predict the trend will only get stronger. If you missed out on varsity jackets this season, make sure to stock lightweight versions for spring like these from Undefeated and G-Star.

Floral and camouflage patterns are popping up in every category of menswear. I love the subtle touch of floral in these Doc Martens from their Liberty of London collection. And this camo pattern reinterpreted as a leaf print from CP Company.

Hats have been among the top sellers for the past few seasons. Bailey of Hollywood has a new designer and the spring collection looks amazing.