Image credit: Instagram.com/stuccigus, Getty Images

It might not feel like it lately but, technically, it’s autumn. While the weather might not be sticking to the traditional calendar, fashion trends (for better or worse) are full steam ahead as new collections arrive to remind us that cooler weather is on the horizon.

Let’s face it: Autumn isn’t the most optimistic season. The clocks go back, the sun makes less of an appearance each day, and the evening chill hits right as you’re enjoying happy hour, reminding you that summer is over. 

If there’s one silver lining to this time of year—besides the rise in videos of dogs jumping into leaves—it’s that autumn is a damn good season for getting dressed. These are the best months for thoughtful, layered outfits—the kind where all the pieces come together to make something greater than the sum of their parts.

With the season emerging, the men’s autumn trends have already begun to bubble away and take shape. But what will be a flash in the pan—like chore jackets and those kaleidoscopic Todd Snyder cardigans—and what will stand the test of time? Below, we’re digging into the autumn trends worth investing in. From the rise of unexpected (hint: fuzzy) headwear to a potential shoe of the year, here are the men’s fashion autumn trends you need to know.

Skepta in a lush Burberry coat. Image credit: Getty Images

Be seen in green

If there’s one colour that’s been spotted here, there and everywhere on the autumn/winter 2024 runways lately, it’s green. From Gucci to Burberry, Loewe, Fendi and more—all the heavy hitters are saying green is a go this season. And it’s not just the forest-inspired shades you might expect, with every shade from sage (as seen in AMI’s latest campaign) to shamrock getting a run. Still in doubt? Let this shot of Skepta wearing an emerald green checkered shearling coat ease your weary mind.

A reworked version of the Paraboot Michael. Image credit: Instagram.com/Paraboot_official

The rise of the Paraboot

Sure, you’ve heard people talk about the post-sneaker world and recommend a pair of loafers. But what comes next—in the post-loafer world? The answer might be the Paraboot Michael, a piped-seam lace-up derby shoe that’s quickly cemented itself as this year’s must-have footwear. The Paraboot and similar styles, such as Clarks Wallabees or the Prada Diapason, were spotted everywhere at Pitti Uomo, and things only exploded from there.

Robert Downey Jr. at the 2024 Oscars embracing the alternative neckwear trend. Image credit: Getty Images

Don’t forget your neck

Overlooked no longer, the neck has become valuable real estate for guys looking to get a fit off. First, Bottega Veneta’s leather necktie continues to pop up on everyone from A$AP Rocky to the people’s princess Ayo Edebiri. Then there’s the classic ribbon tie which is also having a stellar season. And with the Western trend kicking off again thanks to Louis Vuitton and Beyonce’s new era, there’s never been a better time to reach for a bolo tie. 

Paul Mescal bringing Henleys back from the brink of death. Image credit: Getty Images

The knitted long-sleeve 

Menswear it-boys like Paul Mescal and Jacob Elordi have already given their seal of approval to this autumn's most important shirt—the knitted long sleeve. In between shooting projects, Paul’s been working overtime plotting the Henley shirt renaissance, with a particular fondness for Gucci’s ribbed design. Meanwhile, Jacob’s got a campaign of his own going, quickly becoming the face of modern knit tops. It’s no wonder they’re getting celebrity endorsements when you remember how practical knitted long sleeves are for autumn—the perfect layering base for every outfit this season.

Stylist, model and fuzzy headwear enthusiast Gus Milton. Image credit: Instagram.com/Stuccigus

Textured (preferably fuzzy) headwear

Stay with us now; we promise we’re on to something. Lately, there’s been an uptick in furry, fluffy or fuzzy headwear—strikingly textured statement pieces that add just the right amount of chaos to your outfit. Perhaps it all started with Burberry’s giant faux fur trapper hat, but the Instagram and TikTok kids are thirsting after Russian-style fur hats and trappers. While that might not be everyone’s cup of tea, you could always try something (slightly) simpler, like a textured knit hat or wrapping a scarf around your head in the babushka style.

Sign up to GQ Australia Daily to stay up to date with the latest in entertainment, style, fitness and business.