The Ultimate Guide to Luxury Menswear Brands

How Important is Luxury?

Luxury matters for several reasons. For starters, luxury attire is frequently associated with higher levels of prestige, authority, and wealth. At the same time, luxury items are often viewed as more authentic than non-luxury items.

Of course, the exact level of prestige varies based on the individual, the clothes they choose, and how they actually wear them. Generally, though, other people will recognize luxury and put some type of value on it.

That value doesn’t have to be monetary in nature either. For many people, a specific item or outfit can look and feel high-end, even if it is not expensive. This is because, to some extent, items that hold more sentimental value can also be seen as luxurious.

Aside from that, wearing or otherwise having luxury items can also give people a boost to their self-esteem. When someone acquires something that’s considered rare or unique, it can make them feel like they’ve accomplished something. This can be reinforced by how society views that item as well. When this happens, it can reaffirm the way the individual values that item.

When it comes to luxury clothing, there are a few other things that make it so valuable. Your style is one of the key ways in which you get to express yourself to the world. The clothes you wear, luxury or otherwise, serve as an unspoken voice that tells others who you are, what group you belong to, and where you are in life.

By wearing luxury clothes, you’re allowing yourself to be perceived in a way that, with any luck, is the way you see yourself. Whether you’re wearing high-end clothes and accessories or not, you’re still using them to help build your identity. Plus, luxury is another way to separate oneself from others.

Finally, luxury goods often hold their value much longer than non-luxury items. A great example of this is the Rolex watch, a piece of Louis Vuitton luggage, or a Chanel handbag. Each of these items can, and usually do, gain in value over time. Even if you’re not planning on selling, these items can still bring immense personal value to your life.

Why Choose a Luxury Brand?

There are quite a few reasons why you might want to choose a luxury brand. Although they come with a higher price tag, these brands also offer benefits that other, lower-cost items do not.

Choosing a luxury brand allows you to communicate without speaking. It’s a way to dress confidently in attire that is socially recognized for its value. This can still occur even in the case where the brand is only known to certain fashion circles. And, when it comes to brands that don’t have a clear label, luxury still speaks for itself.

Besides this, there’s something special about being able to express yourself by wearing a specific brand that you can’t get elsewhere. By wearing a specific brand or designer, you might find yourself a member of a group of like-minded, similarly accomplished individuals. Not only that but others – whether they’re in that elite group or not – will often recognize your success just by what you wear.

Plus, most luxury brands – especially those that have been around for decades or even longer – are known for their amazing craftsmanship, fine detailing, and unique aesthetic. The best designers don’t take shortcuts in their products either, meaning you can expect longevity and quality in each item. Non-luxury alternatives, meanwhile, are more likely to show signs of wear and tear with regular use.

The good news here is that there’s a good chance that luxury brands will continue to focus on quality and craftsmanship. After all, if they produce something that tears or loses its shape easily, their reputation is at stake.

Finally, there’s a creative reason for wanting to go with a luxury brand. The classic brands in particular are recognized for their distinct styles, fabrics, cuts, and design choices. The most successful brands combine vast amounts of experience with creativity to produce something unique and recognizable. By choosing a luxury designer, you’re taking advantage of the overall value they offer, while still getting the chance to show off your style.

30 Luxury Menswear Brands Reviewed

Before choosing a luxury menswear brand, there are a few things you should keep an eye out for. Every brand has its own creative look, but the best brands will focus on craftsmanship and quality in everything from the fabrics used to the cut and style. Although they all specialize in their own areas, every brand has a rich history in fashion. With that said, here are the top 30 classic designer brands for men to meet all your style needs.

Ralph Lauren

Founded in 1967 by American fashion designer Ralph Lauren (a.k.a. Ralph Lifshitz), this luxury brand is synonymous with the classics as well as high fashion. Originally, Ralph Lauren designed and produced men’s ties. However, in 1968, the designer took his love for sports and branched out into the brand’s first complete line of tailored menswear and sportswear (Polo Ralph Lauren).

Some time later, this luxury brand created the Purple Label collection, an exclusive line of premium products with the finest of fabrics. Ralph Lauren also created the RRL brand, which steps away from the designer’s origins into top-notch workwear attire and denim products.

– Wear it if: You’re looking for a reliable brand with a classic aesthetics that’s built to last.

– Avoid if: You’re fashion-forward and want a more variety.

Brunello Cucinelli

Since fashion designer Brunello Cucinelli launched his Italian luxury brand in 1978, he’s been known as the king of cashmere. Nowadays, the brand is also known for its large selection of menswear, womenswear, shoes, and high-end accessories. In fact, Brunello Cucinelli produces everything from cashmere sweaters and luxury pinstripe suits to casual T-shirts and French terry cotton sweatpants. Every item is handcrafted in Italy using specially sourced fabrics.

Along with being cited as Silicon Valley billionaires’ favorite brand, the European designer is famous for his focus on the Humanistic Enterprise business model. The idea behind this model is focused on spiritual and philosophical growth, as well as a good work-life balance.

– Wear it if: You’re looking for unparalleled craftsmanship, especially when it comes to cashmere and luxury knits, and want to support a brand with a sustainable, humanistic approach to life and business.

– Avoid if: You want something less minimalistic and more fashion-forward.

Giorgio Armani

Launched in 1975 in Milan, Italy, Giorgio Armani is known for producing tailored garments, accessories (jewelry, eyewear, watches), shoes, and an assortment of leather goods. The European designer has an array of menswear, including relaxed post-power suits, elegant shirts, and plush velvet jackets.

Besides the original line, Giorgio Armani has several other collections, including the Emporio Armani, Armani Exchange, and Giorgio Armani Prive. This was also the first luxury brand to get involved in the world of e-sports when it sponsored the Italian team, Mikers, in 2019 to 2020.

Since 2016, the designer has resolved to quit using animal furs in its products and switched to alternative options in an effort to stop animal cruelty.

– Wear it if: You’re in your 30s to 50s looking for exclusively made, custom-fitted, luxury products ranging from unlined jackets to crisp, tailored suits that speak of effortless perfection.

– Avoid if: You’re not into haute couture or ready-to-wear garments.

Paul Smith

As Britain’s foremost designer and one of the world’s few remaining independent brands, Paul Smith has revolutionized luxury fashion for men. As a global designer, Paul Smith is widely recognized for creating patterned lining, uniquely bold accessories, and contrasting cuffs to go with suits and other formalwear.

More than that, the European designer has reinvented everything from the classic boxer shorts to tailored suits. Paul Smith was also one of the first designers to print photos on fabric. Now, the brand continues to combine cutting-edge fashion with traditional craftsmanship to produce a sophisticated style that really stands out.

– Wear it if: You’re a young guy with a classic style who isn’t afraid of bold colors and patterns or making a statement.

– Avoid if: You prefer your menswear straight up without a twist.

Canali

Founded in 1934, Canali has been a staple in luxury menswear for nearly a century. This family-run Italian brand perfectly blends innovative tailoring concepts with Italian culture, history, and style. Every item, from the formal jackets, chinos, and suits to the linen pants, polos, and swim trunks is handcrafted in Italy using the finest techniques. Canali also produces high-end leather products, including bags, belts, hats, and cardholders.

Besides that, this luxury menswear brand offers a made-to-measure service. With this service, you work with a master tailor on the cut, style, and movement of your garments to achieve the perfect look – and fit.

– Wear it if: You know your style inside and out and are looking for a completely personalized experience, regardless of whether you’re wearing casual or formalwear.

– Avoid if: You’re still playing around with different styles or want to stick to the basics for now.

Bally

Currently run by multi-generational artisans, Bally is a Swiss luxury brand that combines traditional craftsmanship with contemporary fashion. It first launched in 1851 and is known as one of the first pioneers in global fashion. The brand emphasizes longevity, sustainability, and the highest caliber of each item it produces.

Although Bally has a fairly large collection that includes ready-to-wear attire such as knitwear, outerwear, tracksuits, and accessories, it’s most prominently known for its shoes. In fact, Bally designs and produces everything from technical athletic shoes to formal footwear. One of the reasons the brand continues to be so successful is that it implements cutting-edge technology, such as AI and 3D prototyping, in its designs.

– Wear it if: You want to wear a brand that melds innovation with timeless traditions and the finest Italian leather.

– Avoid if: You like the classics, but not overt branding.

Salvatore Ferragamo

Upon launching in 1927, Salvatore Ferragamo quickly gained prestige as an Italian luxury shoemaker. Now, it’s a leading designer in apparel for men and women, leather goods, accessories, fragrances and, of course, high-end shoes.

Unlike many other luxury menswear brands, this designer sticks with the basics but reinvented for younger audiences. Rather than typical sweatpants or heavy prints, Salvatore Ferragamo opts for more of a classically formal aesthetic, but with a modern twist.

– Wear it if: Your style is that of contemporary elegance and you want something unique without being over-the-top.

– Avoid if: You’re very trend-focused or view logos as an essential part of your attire.

Tod’s

Launched in 1920, Tod’s is an Italian designer prominently recognized for luxury shoes and finely crafted leather goods. In 1970, the European brand extended its reach to American department stores and now has a global reach.

With Tod’s, you can expect to find timeless articles of the highest quality ranging from wool pants to leather caps. However, the brand is best known for its shoes – lace-up shoes, desert boots, slip-ons, loafers, gomminos, and so on.

FURTHER READING: Why I Love (and Hate) Tod’s Gommino Driving Shoes

– Wear it if: You have a classic, sophisticated, and sporty style and want to incorporate more of your lifestyle into what you wear.

– Avoid if: You’re looking for more formal or sophisticated attire.

Ermenegildo Zegna

Founded in 1910 in Trivero, Italy, Ermenegildo Zegna has an enduring style that relies on over a century of innovation and sustainability. The European brand uses groundbreaking fabrics in its designs, especially its men’s suits. It also uses a unique tailoring system that focuses on easy layering.

Ermenegildo Zegna designs everything from ready-to-wear suits, jackets, and blazers to jeans, T-shirts, and sweaters. The brand even has a line of activewear and fragrances.

– Wear it if: You enjoy a more relaxed, refined style for your formalwear and want to ensure the cut and layers really pop.

– Avoid if: You’re more interested in keeping to classic styles of menswear.

Berluti

Launched in 1895 by a prestigious leathermaker, Alessandro Berluti, this luxury brand started with boots and shoes with a fine leather finish. However, in 1993, LVMH acquired the brand and started designing ready-to-wear menswear, bags, wallets, and belts.

Although the brand has been around for well over a century now, Berluti still uses only the finest leather and traditional craftsmanship, as passed down through the generations, in all its products.

– Wear it if: High fashion, bespoke garments, and high-quality leather appeal to you.

– Avoid if: You’re not a fan of leather products or consider yourself a classicist.

Tom Ford

Launched in 2005 by Tom Ford, a previous creative director at Gucci, this brand markets itself as one of the best American luxury brands for a European audience – and with good reason. From elegant watches to tailored suits, knitwear, evening wear, and outerwear, each item speaks of elegance and quality.

Besides that, Tom Ford also produces high-end bags, luggage, bow ties, loafers, and small leather goods. When you go with this designer, you can expect each outfit to be tailored specifically to your proportions and comfort.

– Wear it if: You have a more cultured, refined style and want to wear formal attire that’s also sexy.

– Avoid if: You want to stick to the basics or have a more down-to-earth style.

Dior

When it first launched in 1946, Dior was mainly known for its luxury women’s fashion. However, it currently produces a large collection of menswear as well, including ready-to-wear apparel, suit jackets, tuxedos, knitwear, and polos. The European brand also designs an array of wallets, shoes, T-shirts, bags, and ski apparel. Back when Paris was no longer considered the fashion capital of the world, Dior also served to help revive it and bring it back to the forefront of style.

– Wear it if: You’re into street culture and high fashion, or if you’re ahead of the times.

– Avoid if: The timeless, classic styles are more up your alley.

Thom Browne

Thom Browne is an American fashion designer based in New York City. The brand is known for its future-oriented style and for challenging today’s trends in fashion. More than that, Thom Browne is especially famous for reinventing men’s suits. This brand is easily recognized for its innovative approach and the trademarked, four-bar stripe that can be found on most of its outerwear and footwear.

– Wear it if: You also want to challenge modern fashion and wear something that really stands out.

– Avoid if: The futuristic style isn’t for you or if you.

Louis Vuitton

Perhaps best known for its luxury luggage, Louis Vuitton is a European brand based in Paris. Ever since its initial launch in 1854, this designer has been synonymous with a timeless quality. Every item – from suitcases to ready-to-wear apparel – boasts exceptional craftsmanship and is made to last a long time. Some Louis Vuitton products even gain value over time. Louis Vuitton is also widely recognized as a celebrity brand and one of the most well-known luxury brands worldwide.

– Wear it if: You’re in your 20s to 60s and want something contemporary and glamorous.

– Avoid if: You want something less recognizable.

Bottega Veneta

An Italian luxury brand based in Milan, Bottega Veneta is recognized for creating the tagline, “When your initials are enough.” Since its launch in 1966, Bottega Veneta has set a new standard for luxury, one that was inspired by Italy’s unique blend of culture and global outlook.

Although this European designer was initially best-known for producing high-quality bags, it also designs a large selection of slimming and oversized jackets, tech-twill suit trousers, mohair and wool-blend suits, and suit jackets.

– Wear it if: You want your wardrobe to speak for itself, without the need for labels, and are going for a refined contemporary aesthetic.

– Avoid if: Contemporary fits aren’t your thing.

Rick Owens

Since 1994, Rick Owens has been operating in Paris, France, despite being founded by an American designer from Southern California. This luxury menswear brand is world-renowned for its groundbreaking designs. In fact, Rick Owens has received the apt nickname “The Lord of Darkness” due to his largely gothic style.

Although the brand produces everything from pebbled leather jackets to zip-detail boots and oversized sunglasses, it’s perhaps most famous for its signature leather jackets.

– Wear it if: You’re a fan of the gothic grunge look or are going for a more gender-neutral design.

– Avoid if: You want to stick to more classic, timeless styles or brighter colors.

Prada

Prada is an Italian luxury brand that began in Milan in 1913. Early on, the European designer started providing comfortable alternatives to formalwear in respect to the early 1900s fashion. In modern fashion, Prada is still the gold standard of high fashion. Every item – including the leather handbags, travel accessories, perfumes, shoes, and ready-to-wear garments – is  of the highest quality.

– Wear it if: You want to freely express your style with an upscale brand that uses both contemporary and classic designs.

– Avoid if: You’re more comfortable in traditional styles meant to last for decades.

Dries Van Noten

Dries Van Noten is a Belgian luxury brand that launched in 1986 with its luxury menswear line, which it originally presented in London. Each year, this designer creates four new collections – men’s and women’s for winter and summer. The brand is most popular for its eccentric style, as well as for its readily available, ready-to-wear items.

– Wear it if: You want to wear original fabrics with unique layering, prints, and colors.

– Avoid if: You prefer a more minimalistic and classic design.

Saks Fifth Avenue

First launched in 1867, Saks Fifth Avenue was acquired by Hudson’s Bay Company in 2013. This Manhattan-based luxury retailer emphasizes service, personalization, and quality in all its offerings. The brand also produces everything from designer and luxury menswear to jewelry, watches, colognes, bags, shoes, and other accessories.

In addition to formalwear, Saks Fifth Avenue also has a line of semi-formal and casual menswear. This line includes dress shirts, coats, jackets, activewear, loungewear, and relaxed button-downs.

– Wear it if: You’re fashion conscious and want to appear effortlessly stylish.

– Avoid if: You want something more exclusive or that really pops.

Missoni

Founded in 1953, Missoni is best known for its colorful knitwear and intricate designs. The Italian designer’s signature motif is the zigzag, which can be found on nearly every item – from winter scarves to swimwear. Although Missoni uses a lot of colors in its designs, each piece is still tasteful and elegant.

– Wear it if: You want something eye-catching, vibrant, and intricately designed.

– Avoid if: You’re not all that interested in bright pieces or the minute differences in fabrics, textures, and weaves.

Gucci

Founded in 1921, Gucci is one of Italy’s oldest luxury brands and is recognized for its fine craftsmanship and high fashion style. Even today, this European designer is a mainstay of men’s fashion and luxury menswear. In recent years, though, Gucci has reinvented itself to become more popular with a younger audience.

– Wear it if: You want an exceedingly classy wardrobe that doesn’t skimp on the quality of craftsmanship.

– Avoid if: You’re in your 40s or above and seek a more timeless style.

Saint Laurent

A French luxury brand founded in 1961, Saint Laurent uses reliable French manufacturing techniques and high-quality fabrics to create an authentic look. The European designer is best known for producing apparel following the Parisian chic style.

Today, Saint Laurent creates everything from small leather goods to shoes and ready-to-wear garments. In 2015, the brand revitalized its haute couture collection and has become somewhat edgier than it used to be.

– Wear it if: You’re looking to express yourself in a trendy and authentic way.

– Avoid if: You’re not interested in keeping on trend so much as you are in the classic styles.

Dolce & Gabbana

Launched in 1985, Dolce & Gabbana is a highly prominent Italian designer that has a contemporary look. The brand combines the exotic Mediterranean style with Italian culture to produce sharp menswear.

This European designer is very well known for its V-shaped silhouette, refined suits and trousers, and powerful cuts. Dolce & Gabbana also designs luxury footwear, bags, watches, sunglasses, and other accessories.

– Wear it if: Your style errs on the side of austere or sharp.

– Avoid if: You’re going for a more relaxed or casual look.

Dunhill

A traditional English designer, Dunhill was originally famous for its cigarettes. Eventually, the brand branched out into equestrian and motoring products. In 1970, Dunhill introduced its first luxury menswear collection. Now, it also designs high-end wallets, bags, and shoes for men.

– Wear it if: You prefer an understated, timeless style that’s sustainable and speaks of authority in the modern era.

– Avoid if: You want to express yourself with something bolder or change up your wardrobe every few years.

Kiton

Established in 1968, Kiton is a privately-owned Italian designer that has a minimalistic, renaissance style. The European designer primarily uses soft fabrics and unstructured forms in their suits and other formal luxury menswear. They also have an informal line of menswear designed for the contemporary man who’s sophisticated, refined, and casual.

– Wear it if: You want to exude authority without being too stern.

– Avoid if: You’d prefer your suits to be more structured.

Loro Piana

Since 1924, Loro Piana has been the leading authority on cashmere and merino wool garments in the luxury menswear space. The European designer blends urban living with contemporary elegance in all their apparel. Each item is classic, unfettered, and exquisitely made using natural fibers.

– Wear it if: You lead a busy life, but still want to easily express your identity in an understated yet luxurious way.

– Avoid if: You want to choose each item separately and make a statement with your wardrobe.

Private White V.C.

Founded in 2010, Private White V.C. is a staple in British fashion and luxury menswear. The European designer produces luxury men’s coats, jackets, and shirts using locally sourced fabrics. Each garment is handcrafted with the finest materials and made to last. Private White V.C. also offers lifetime repairs on apparel.

– Wear it if: You’re looking for a style that is both utilitarian and beautifully made.

– Avoid if: You want something with a more distinct aesthetic.

Rubinacci

Founded in 1932 by Gennaro Rubinacci, this eponymous Italian brand is known for using the finest cloths, bold colors, and constructing high-quality, tailored outfits. Among other things, Rubinacci produces classic Italian suits, Giorgio jackets, raglan coats, cardigans, trousers, and even fedoras. The European designer also offers bespoke services to individual clients.

– Wear it if: You want a distinguished (and distinctive) classy style.

– Avoid if: Bold and bright colors or patterns appeal more to you than neutral ones.

Stoffa

A newcomer on the fashion scene, Stoffa was launched in 2014 by Agyesh Madan and Nicholas Ragosta. This brand emphasizes sustainability and uses a blend of function and beauty in its designs. Stoffa also offers tailoring so each item is perfectly fitted and allows for the right amount of movement.

– Wear it if: Yours is the look of relaxed elegance, function, minimalism, and grace.

– Avoid if: You’d prefer something that stands out in a crowd.

Thom Sweeney

Another newer luxury menswear brand, Thom Sweeney first launched in 2009. This high-end brand produces both ready-to-wear and made-to-measure menswear. Thom Sweeney uses a combination of understated styles and traditional tailoring techniques to produce knitwear, outerwear, loungewear, shoes, and so on.

– Wear it if: You prefer the old-fashioned method of tailoring and want a contemporary, understated look with a well-tailored fit.

– Avoid if: You’re into the latest trends or love bold and bright designs.

Bottom Line on Luxury Menswear

Whether you prefer to express yourself with bold colors and patterns (Paul Smith) or want to go with a more timeless, understated look (Dunhill, Thom Sweeney), there’s a classic luxury brand for you.

Regardless of the designer, the best thing you can do for yourself is to choose a style that makes you look and feel confident when wearing it. That could mean choosing a curated design or getting each item tailored to your exact proportions. Or it could mean choosing the right accessories to complement the main outfit.

If you want to err on the side of caution, go with a designer that offers timeless styles, tailoring, and well-constructed pieces made to last. On the other hand, if you consider yourself to be fashion-forward and want to stay on the cutting-edge of style, choose a brand that does the same. That way, you can grow with the brand and be confident – and comfortable – in your clothes.

Thanks for reading.

Stylishly Yours,

Angela Mae
He Spoke Style