Men’s shirting fabrics for Autumn/Winter 2025-26 by Trends Council

The overall shirting fabric trends for men for Autumn/Winter 2025-2026 by Trends Council point towards a blend of tactile luxury, enhanced function, and strong sustainability. Based on the broader textile and fashion forecasting for the season, here are the shirting fabric trends for A/W 2025-26:

Rise of luxe textures and tactility

The core trend for the season is a ‘Rebirth of textured fabrics,’ moving away from plain, flat surfaces to materials that invite touch and convey richness.

• Velvet and sued finishes: While often used for outerwear, luxurious velvet or soft, sued/peached surfaces are making their way into heavier shirting and overshirts, offering a subtle sheen and premium hand-feel.
• Complex weaves and jacquards: Expect visual and tactile interest from complex dobby weaves, cross-hatched textures, and subtle jacquards. These constructions, often in tone-on-tone color combinations, elevate the standard shirt.
• Corded weaves: Clean stripes and checks are updated using corded weave textures, particularly in blends of recycled wool and nylon for a heavier, heritage feel.

Performance meets comfort (smart functional fabrics)

The demand for hybrid clothing continues, incorporating technical features into classic shirting.

• Functional finishes: Wrinkle-resistant, anti-odor, and moisture-wicking treatments are becoming essential, especially for tailored and ‘elevated utility’ shirting that transitions from work to travel.
• Stretch and comfort: Fabrics with a low percentage of elastane or bi-stretch properties will be key for comfort, particularly in more fitted or tapered silhouettes.
• Heavyweight and utility: Durable twills, drills, and canvas constructions are prominent for utilitarian or overshirt styles, often featuring overdyeing or chalky, two-tone effects.

Sustainability and heritage fibers

Ethical sourcing and durability are paramount, influencing fiber choices and construction.

• Eco-conscious materials: The focus is on materials like organic cotton, recycled wool, hemp, Tencel lyocell, and bamboo blends, emphasizing lower impact and traceability.
• Durability and longevity: The investment in fewer, higher-quality pieces drives the preference for durable, long-lasting twills and weaves.

Prints and patterns (Reworked classics)

Classic patterns are either subverted or given a bold, non-traditional update.

• Subtle and subverted classics: Look for checks and plaids - like Prince of Wales or houndstooth - in monochrome or muted color combinations, sometimes with a crosshatched texture for a mottled effect.
• Bold statements: For more casual shirting, the trend includes geometric patterns, abstract motifs, and renewed floral/botanical prints on dark bases, designed to make the shirt a focal point.
• Classic stripes: Clean, classic stripes and checks remain relevant, but often executed in superfine double-cloths or with textured slub yarns for a contemporary look.