Summary

Department store bankruptcies, tariffs, shifting consumer tastes — these are just a few of the issues facing independent retailers in 2026. But by sticking with the tried-and-true strategies that have been their hallmark, men’s merchants believe they can overcome any obstacles thrown at them and continue to prosper. Retailers shopping the Chicago Collective menswear show last week were in fine spirits after a solid holiday season. And they were writing orders to finalize their fall 2026 buys in anticipation of continuing the momentum.

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