Topman Is Back: Why Its High Street Comeback Matters for British Menswear in 2026

 

Peter Ruis, managing director of John Lewis, said the moment ‘marks a significant acceleration of our fashion ambition’ (John Lewis/PA) Pht: PerSpective Media

For a while, the British High Street felt noticeably quieter. When Topman disappeared from physical stores to become an online-only brand under ASOS, something fundamental shifted in UK men’s style. It wasn’t just about losing another shop; it was about losing a cultural reference point. 

Now, Topman is officially back in physical retail through a major partnership with John Lewis, launching dedicated spaces in 32 stores across the UK. This comeback signals more than just nostalgia—it’s a recalibration of how British men dress. 

Why Topman’s Return to the High Street Matters in 2026

1. The End of "Size Roulette" 

For years, men have been playing “size roulette” online—ordering three sizes, returning two, and hoping one fits. Buying trousers or structured blazers online remains one of fashion’s most frustrating experiences. 

Topman’s physical return means: 

• Tactile Shopping: You can check fabric quality and weight in person. 
• Guaranteed Fit: No more guesswork; you can assess the cut before tapping your card. 
• Style Discovery: It allows for experimenting with silhouettes you wouldn’t risk ordering online. 

2. The High Street’s New Cultural Relevance 

The UK High Street has struggled, but menswear is proving to be the category that brings foot traffic back. Topman’s return represents a shift away from purely algorithm-driven fast fashion and a renewed focus on curated, physical retail experiences.

What the “New” Topman Looks Like in 2026 

This isn’t a repeat of 2014. The ultra-skinny silhouette that once defined the brand is no longer the centrepiece. Instead, the new direction reflects the 2026 menswear trends dominating London and beyond:

• Relaxed Tailoring: Softer blazers and roomier trousers that feel structured but never stiff. 
• The Oversized Movement: Boxy T-shirts and relaxed outerwear that tap into the modern "baggy" aesthetic without losing sophistication. 
• Textured Knitwear: Essential layers designed for the unpredictable British weather. 
• Elevated Basics: High-quality essentials that align with the "Quiet Luxury" movement—subtle, clean, and logo-light. 

The brand is moving away from the "indie-lad" caricature towards a more modern, minimal confidence.

Nostalgia vs. Evolution: A Genuine Shift in UK Style 

There is, of course, a nostalgia factor. For many Millennial and Gen Z men, Topman was their first introduction to trend-driven dressing. Seeing that iconic logo back in a John Lewis window carries emotional weight. 

However, British menswear in 2026 is more silhouette-aware and quality-focused. Topman’s physical return fits neatly into this evolution: it’s less about "disposable" fashion and more about considered, intentional pieces. 

The Verdict: Will British Men Show Up? 

A comeback only works if customers engage. The real test isn’t the press coverage; it’s whether men return to browsing rails instead of scrolling endlessly on their phones. If they do, it could signal a stronger High Street presence and much-needed competition in affordable tailoring. 

Final Thought: Next time you’re near a John Lewis, skip the kitchenware section and take a look at the rails. The High Street might just feel interesting again.

SHOP OUR 2026 TOPMAN PICKS: The New Season at John Lewis

Prada SS26 Menswear Runway – Iconic Innovation and Key Trends

Prada Spring/Summer 2026 Menswear | Milan Fashion Week 

 

 

Video via Fashion Feed on Youtube

Overview: Prada’s Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection showcases bold silhouettes and modern trends that redefine classic menswear. From micro‑shorts to oversized tailoring, the collection blends elegance with contemporary flair. 

🎯 Why This Collection Matters

Prada’s SS26 runway, curated by Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons, breaks traditional menswear conventions. Expect high-cut shorts, relaxed tailoring, and a light, airy colour palette — all elements that define this season’s luxurious yet wearable aesthetic.

👀 Key Trends You Should Know

1. Micro‑Short Silhouettes The runway highlighted mini micro-shorts, one of the most talked-about trends of the season. Perfect for those seeking a bold, fashion-forward statement. (out.com ) 

 

2. Oversized and Relaxed Tailoring Soft blazers, lightweight trenches, and relaxed cuts offer a sophisticated yet comfortable look. Ideal for city life or social occasions where style meets ease. (fashionunited.com )

3. Soft Colours with Bold Contrasts Expect cobalt blues, vibrant reds, mint, and yellow set against minimalist designs, creating striking contrasts that catch the eye. (hypebeast.com ) 

🛍️ Shop Prada for Spring 2026

Discover the season’s iconic pieces and elevate your Spring/Summer 2026 style. Bring the Prada SS26 spirit into your wardrobe with these hand-picked items:

Men’s Spring 2026 Wardrobe Essentials: The Weather-Ready Transition (UK Edition)

 

It’s no secret that 2026 has started on a soggy note; according to the Met Office, there has been measurable rainfall recorded somewhere in the country every single day since January 1, 2026. But from a female perspective, a bit of relentless drizzle is no excuse to abandon style; it’s simply an invitation for weather-ready refinement. 

This season, we’re moving away from heavy winter parkas in favour of structured, moisture-wicking silhouettes that keep you looking sharp regardless of the forecast:

• Tailored Harrington jackets in muted tones for a smart-casual edge. 
• Classic lightweight trenches that offer a polished profile without the bulk. 
• Treated leather Chelsea boots to handle the puddles with sophistication or comfy trainers for the sunny days. 

As we move deeper into Spring 2026, the focus shifts toward breathable layering and soft spring hues. We’re seeing a stylish move away from dark charcoals towards light neutrals— think oatmeal knits, sage green overshirts, and 'butter yellow' polos that hint at the sunshine we’re all craving. The secret lies in the fabrics; look for technical linens, water-resistant cotton blends, and high-density fabrics specifically designed for unpredictable British spring weather. It’s about building a wardrobe that feels like spring, even when the clouds refuse to clear. After all, a truly stylish man doesn't just wait for the rain to stop; he knows exactly how to dress for it.

Given that it has rained somewhere in the UK every single day so far in 2026, what is your one weather-ready style essential for surviving the British spring? 🌧️ Let us know in the comments below!

Our Spring Essentials Edit: Handpicked for the 2026 British Gentleman 

Shop the Look: The Transition Kit - Our Top Weather-Ready Picks

Ralph Lauren: A Return from Classic to Modern — Why the Fashion World Is Talking Again

 

Image from Vogue Runway

Image from Vogue Runway

Is Ralph Lauren Making a Comeback? A Deep Dive into the 2026 Collection 

Ralph Lauren has never been a brand that chases noise. In NYFW Fall/Winter 2026 it showcased something  far more enduring: identity. Yet this latest show felt different. It did not simply present a new season - it felt like a reassertion. And in menswear especially, it felt very much like a comeback. 

Menswear: A Confident Return

The men’s collection carried the kind of assurance that only a heritage house can deliver. Tailoring was sharp without being rigid. Silhouettes were relaxed yet intentional. There was depth in the layering - textured knits, structured blazers, fluid trousers - all styled in a way that felt effortless rather than theatrical. 

What made it resonate was not reinvention, but clarity. Ralph Lauren leaned fully into its codes: refinement, aspiration, understated luxury. In a market saturated with trend-driven statements and algorithm-friendly moments, this felt grounded. Strong. Self-assured. 

From a woman’s perspective observing menswear, it was desirable in a very classic sense. These were pieces that looked wearable, elevated, and emotionally reassuring. It reminded us that modernity does not always mean disruption; sometimes it simply means confidence in who you are. And that quiet confidence is precisely what made this feel like a comeback moment. 

Womenswear: Heritage in Brown — Perhaps Too Immersed

Ralph Lauren has long embraced brown as part of its visual identity. From deep chocolate leather to warm camel tailoring, earthy tones have been central to the brand’s aesthetic for decades. This was not a reaction to a passing colour trend - brown has always belonged to Ralph Lauren. 

However, in this particular show, the immersion in brown felt almost overwhelming at times. Layer upon layer of tonal dressing created richness and cohesion, yet occasionally bordered on visual heaviness. The lack of sharper contrast - whether through unexpected colour, texture shifts, or styling variation - meant that certain looks felt slightly muted rather than dynamic.

The craftsmanship, of course, was undeniable. Suede, leather, soft tailoring and fluid silhouettes maintained the house’s signature sophistication. The collection was luxurious and controlled - perhaps intentionally restrained. It did not feel trend-led, nor did it feel insecure. It felt loyal. But at moments, perhaps a little too immersed in its own palette.

 
Photo from Independent.co.uk

It is also worth mentioning the casting. Whilst many were pleased to see Gigi Hadid on the runway, I do not always find her the strongest catwalk presence. She photographs beautifully and works well in campaigns, but on the runway I sometimes miss a certain intensity and commanding aura. Of course, this is entirely subjective - runway presence and editorial presence are not always the same.

The Rhythm of Legacy Brands

This brings us to a wider truth about legacy houses. They rarely operate on constant peaks. They ebb and flow. They quieten, recalibrate, and then re-emerge with renewed clarity. Relevance, for heritage brands, does not come from chasing every cultural shift. It comes from knowing when to return to their core.

I have always held legacy brands in high regard. They are not simply commercial entities; they are part of fashion’s collective memory. They carry visual and cultural archives that newer labels simply do not possess. In many ways, they represent a memory we should preserve.

A temporary dimming followed by a confident return is not a weakness — it is part of the rhythm. And Ralph Lauren’s latest show felt exactly like that: a recalibration, a reminder, and perhaps a subtle but powerful comeback.

SHOP RALPH LAUREN HERE.

5 Subtle Style Moves That Make Men Instantly More Attractive – Tips from a Woman’s Perspective

     

When it comes to style, it’s often the small details that make the biggest impact. As a woman who loves observing men’s fashion, I’ve noticed that a few subtle tweaks can instantly elevate a man’s look and make him irresistibly attractive. 

Here are my top five style moves every man should know, especially for those living in the UK, where style is understated yet powerful. 

 1. Fit is Everything

It doesn’t matter how expensive your clothes are if they don’t fit. 

• Slim-fit shirts and tailored trousers create a clean silhouette that shows attention to detail. 

• Avoid baggy or overly tight clothing—both can be unflattering. 

• Tip: UK brands like Reiss and Ted Baker offer classic, well-fitted pieces perfect for casual or office wear. 

A well-fitted jacket instantly says confidence, which is incredibly attractive. 

2. Invest in Quality Footwear

Shoes often make the first impression, even before we notice your face.

• Leather brogues, Chelsea boots, or clean sneakers can complete any outfit.

• Keep them polished and in good condition. Dirty or worn-out shoes can undo an otherwise great outfit.

• UK favourites: Church’s, Dr. Martens, and Clarks for everyday style. 

3. Master the Power of Layers

Layering adds dimension and sophistication to your look.

• Combine a crisp shirt with a fine-knit jumper or a tailored blazer.

• Scarves are not only practical for the UK’s unpredictable weather but also a stylish accessory.

• Avoid overdoing it—think simplicity and elegance.

4. Accessorise Wisely

Accessories show personality without shouting it.

• A classic watch, a leather belt, or subtle cufflinks can elevate your look.
• Avoid excessive jewellery—less is often more.
• Tip: Consider a sleek bag or backpack for a polished, urban vibe. 

5. Colour Coordination Matters

Even small colour choices can make a difference.

• Neutral tones (navy, grey, white) are timeless and versatile.

• Add a pop of colour with a tie, pocket square, or socks to show playful confidence.

• Tip: Pay attention to what suits your skin tone and complements your outfit.