Falling Into Burgundy: How One Color Saved My Senior Thesis + My Favorites for Men [Pre-Fall 2024] (1/2)

Introduction

This week is Burgundy Week and while I'm excited to share with you my burgundy favorites for men.

But, I first want to tell a story about my senior thesis.

For those of you who don't know I went to college for Fashion Merchandising and my senior thesis, was a digital womenswear collection for Fall 2024.

In August of 2023, I originally chose this color scheme because I thought that it was going to be in next next Fall (not a typo).

But as it reached November 2023, I had this nagging feeling that I needed to switch the colors of the project because magenta and pink were quickly going out of style.

So, at 2 AM in a fit of rage, I yelled "Fine dammit!" and changed the entire collection to revolve around this shade of red.

I remember feeling anxious to present my project at the end of my senior year because I couldn't stop worrying that I was wrong - what if red wouldn't be in?

Thankfully, now that Fall/Winter 2024 is beginning I can say with confidence - red is so in.

Burgundy

The other day my mom was on TikTok and I heard what sounded like a fashion influencer say "I think red is my new favorite neutral."

When people think neutrals they think of quiet colors: black, white, beige, and gray, so to have burgundy amongst them makes me really happy.

Because of the bold nature of the red family, burgundy as a neutral implies that individuality is becoming essential for people's wardrobes.

Now, do I think red is neutral in the literal sense? Not REALLY, but I think it's the kind of color that can be worn whether or not it's "in style."

So, for the first of two burgundy posts, I wanted to show you my burgundy favorites for men to hopefully bring you closer to enjoying a trend that means a lot to me.

My Favorites

These Non-Iron Chinos are a great pick for something that's easy to style but goes beyond the standard khaki.

Charles Tyrwhitt | Non-Iron Chinos |$129.00

Nothing fancy here, I just love this color and need better socks.

J. Crew | Ribbed Socks in "Vintage Burgundy" | $19.50

Colored in burgundy, this pair of shoes is a great fashion-forward choice for anyone who wants to get in on the penny loafer hype.

Charles Tyrwhitt | Burgundy Penny Loafers | $259

This sweater is a great burgundy basic that can be worn for years to come.

J. Crew | Cashmere Cotton Burgundy Sweater | $138.00

With a print like this, it's been hard to convince myself that this isn't a necessity.

Charles Tyrwhitt | Floral Medallion Silk Pocket Square |$30.00

For the man who wants to be a bit extra, this burgundy flare pant is a great choice.

Levi's | Burgundy Flare Pant | $98.00

Jumping on the academic-romanticism trend in menswear, this rugby polo is a great basic that also looks really comfy.

Levi's | Rugby Polo Shirt | $48.98

Building on the workwear trend this Burgundy workshirt is a sturdy choice for someone who values good construction and an attention to detail in their clothing.

Levi's | Burgundy Workwear Shirt | $69.50

Conclusion

So I guess my senior thesis was right!

It's strange to think about how predictable trends can be once you understand how the industry works, and even more strange to watch your predictions come true.

As I slowly watch people switch out their Magenta for Burgundy I can't help but feel excited for them.

To me, Burgundy represents the encouragement of individuality and the bravery it takes to be noticed.

Orange is my color, but this fall, burgundy is my favorite.

-JM

P.S. - Something we talked about in Fashion Merchandising School is that retail trends have different terms within the industry at corporate and to the customer at stores. "Burgundy" is known as Assouline Red within the Fashion Industry, so if you ever need to impress a fashion nerd or annoy everyone you know feel free to correct them. You can thank me later. 🧡