In the June/July 2025 issue of GQ, the spotlight is firmly on a major resurgence of early 2000s fashion trends for men. As the summer season approaches, designers are drawing inspiration from the past while giving these nostalgic looks a modern update. Leading the charge are high-end brands such as Balenciaga, Gucci, Martine Rose, and Versace, each showcasing collections that blend the bold, eccentric style of the early 2000s with contemporary tailoring and design. From ultra-fitted polo shirts to statement accessories like puka shell necklaces and beaded jewelry, this summer’s fashion is all about making a statement and embracing a playful sense of nostalgia.
The early 2000s were characterized by an experimental approach to fashion, and it seems designers are tapping into that same spirit of daring innovation. GQ’s editorial delves into how these brands are embracing the past while keeping their collections firmly grounded in the present. Balenciaga and Versace, for example, have introduced ultra-fitted polo shirts that pay homage to the slim, body-conscious cuts of the early millennium. These shirts are paired with bold, cropped designs, a nod to the era’s penchant for showing off a little extra skin and a slimmer silhouette.
Nostalgic accessories are another focal point of this season’s trends, with pieces like beaded jewelry and puka shell necklaces making a strong return. These accessories, which were once synonymous with the laid-back, beachy style of the early 2000s, are now being reimagined by designers like Gucci and Martine Rose, adding a touch of luxury to the casual, carefree vibe they once represented. The combination of these accessories with sharp tailoring and high-end materials has elevated them from beachwear staples to chic, everyday essentials.
Footwear is also experiencing a shift, with a focus on open, minimal designs. Brands like Hermès, The Row, and Louis Vuitton Men’s are leading the charge in offering stylish shoes that are both comfortable and fashionable. These open-toed sandals, slides, and loafers are not only a departure from the heavy, structured footwear of seasons past, but they also align with the minimalist aesthetic that has dominated recent runway shows. The emphasis on open and airy footwear is perfect for the summer months, offering a stylish yet functional approach to warm-weather dressing.
The editorial in GQ offers an exciting mix of vintage-inspired designs and modern twists, helping men approach their summer wardrobe with both confidence and creativity. It’s clear that 2025 summer fashion is about more than just wearing clothes—it’s about embracing individuality and making bold choices that feel both timeless and fresh. Whether you’re channeling the early 2000s vibe through accessories or opting for a streamlined, minimalist shoe, this summer promises to be one of the most stylish seasons in recent memory.
The combination of nostalgia and modernity in men’s fashion for Summer 2025 reflects a broader trend in the industry, where designers are continually looking for ways to reinterpret past styles while introducing innovations that cater to the tastes and needs of today’s fashion-conscious consumer. By embracing the past with a contemporary twist, men’s fashion is poised to offer a stylish, versatile, and fun approach to summer dressing.