In May 2025, GQ readers gravitated toward a curated selection of menswear and lifestyle products that reflect a growing preference for versatile, stylish, and functional pieces. The top purchases, as highlighted by the GQ Recommends team, showcase a blend of classic staples and contemporary innovations, indicating a broader evolution in men’s fashion sensibilities.
Footwear: Blending Performance with Style
Leading the list were the Nike Zoom Vomero Roam sneakers, lauded for their all-weather readiness and sleek design. These sneakers, associated with Kendrick Lamar’s influence, combine trail-ready features with urban aesthetics, appealing to readers seeking both functionality and fashion .
Denim and Classic Staples
Denim enthusiasts favored the Levi’s Japan-made Blue Tab 501 jeans, appreciated for their vintage fit and selvedge quality. This choice reflects a continued interest in heritage-inspired pieces that offer durability and timeless style .
Summer Essentials: Shorts and Blazers
For summer wear, Patagonia Stand Up Shorts made a notable comeback, offering a blend of comfort and durability suitable for various activities. Complementing this, the Buck Mason Carry-On Jacket emerged as a versatile blazer option, praised for its adaptability across different settings, from casual outings to more formal occasions .
Elevated Basics and Emerging Brands
The Merz B. Schwanen classic T-shirt gained popularity, partly due to its appearance on the television show “The Bear,” highlighting a trend toward high-quality, minimalist basics. Additionally, the Frizmworks stripe seersucker shirt introduced readers to South Korean fashion, emphasizing the global influence on contemporary menswear .
Activewear and Lifestyle Integration
Ten Thousand Interval Shorts stood out as a workout favorite, combining performance features with everyday wearability. This aligns with a broader trend of integrating activewear into daily wardrobes, emphasizing comfort without compromising style .
Conclusion
The purchasing patterns of GQ readers in May 2025 underscore a shift toward clothing and accessories that balance aesthetics with practicality. This evolution reflects a modern man’s desire for pieces that are not only stylish but also versatile and functional, catering to diverse aspects of daily life.