It would be fair to call Jorge Valls a Nordstrom veteran. The Men’s Director of Designer Fashion has been with the retailer since 1996, first joining in public relations and eventually making his way to his current role which gives him a powerful voice in menswear – especially as the company prepares to open the Nordstrom NYC Men’s Store at 235 W. 57^th Street this spring. In time for New York Fashion Week: Men’s, which kicks off today and runs through Wednesday, February 7, we caught up with Valls about menswear, American style, and trends we should be on the lookout for.

How would you describe the state of menswear fashion at this moment?

The old rules of men’s fashion are no longer relevant. Men are willing to take risks with color and proportion play. Now more than ever, men can express their individuality in how they dress.

What sets American menswear apart from the British, Italian and French collections?

American fashion typically comes from a more utilitarian and causal point of view which can make it a little more approachable and understandable than its European counterparts.

In your view, what are the key trends for Fall 2018?

The biggest trend is the continuation of 90s streetwear seen everywhere in Milan and Paris, but there is also an undercurrent of more refined tailoring that feels timely and refreshing and looked incredible at Off-White. I personally loved the sophisticated western detailing at Dries.

Generally, what do you look for in a men’s show?

The shows complete the designer’s vision for the season. The music, the mood, the pace all reinforce how they want the clothes to make you feel.

What have been some of your all-time favorite fashion shows and why?

The Dries show at the Palais Garnier. Breathtaking venue and extravagant clothes. We were seated backstage when the curtains opened, revealing the empty opera house. There was an Audible gasp from all of us and then the most beautiful clothes paraded in front of us. Truly memorable.

What shows are you excited to see this NYFW: Men’s?

Raf, Raf, Raf! He brings gravitas and innovation to NYFW: Men’s.

We can’t wait for Nordstrom’s upcoming men’s store on West 57th Street. What should we be looking forward to the most?

So many incredible ideas in one store, but the most important one is the diversity of product we offer in terms of style and price. Customers can get their favorite items from their favorite brands and also be surprised at what else they find.