Style : Fashion : Cruise Control

Men’s fashion is shifting gears for fall, heading toward a sleeker, sexier, more streamlined image. This trend tends to blur the distinction between dress clothes and sportswear, particularly at the office. The idea is to appear a bit racy: While a cardigan takes the edge off a white shirt and tie, a turtleneck or zip-front shirt under a business suit softens the power look.

The new silhouette is fluid and clean, leaner through the body and shoulders. Below the belt, pant legs have gone straight and narrow. In tailored clothing, single-breasted jackets with slim lapels are making a comeback, replacing double-breasted jackets with massive lapels. For casual attire, the three-quarter-length jacket known as the car coat can update a T-shirt and jeans in one bold stroke.

Knitted fabrics, once reserved for sportswear, are now being used for tailored garments. Look for basic items with a subtle hipness in the cut and material. Black and white mixed with an accent shade are refreshing after several seasons of color. For accessories, both the wide belt and heavy lace-up shoes are wardrobe staples.

Grooming: Cheryl Marks for Dorie Sherman; models: Bill Fiers/ Click Models of Los Angeles and Jerry Garner/ OMAR’S Men