For the time being BBQs remain firmly shut, shorts and cuban shirts lie folded in the bottom drawer and the only role Birkenstocks currently have is as a second pair of slippers. Basically, it's still time to be talking winter style...
At this time of year layering is king (see the Art of Layering) and the combinations are endless! I’d Always encourage traditional pieces to be used in unconventional ways. E.g. a denim jacket as a mid-layer beneath an overcoat - it really does work!
I’ve created a list of five timeless essentials you Always need in your AW arsenal:
Overcoat
The finisher and the flourisher, all in one. It can perfectly complete a sartorial look, or elevate a casual ensemble to a slightly more formal level.
If we’re talking colours, I Always recommend camel, navy or grey - all are extremely versatile and can look extremely slick, whatever they’re paired with. Camel and grey overcoats are a great way of adding vibrancy to a monochromatic outfit, whilst navy will give you a slightly more ‘office ready’ look.
Whatever you choose, Always have one in your wardrobe.
Leather Boots
The perfect footwear for any occasion ,whether you’re looking to dress up, or keep things slightly more on the casual side.
It's a sin in my eyes if you don’t have at least one pair in your wardrobe for this season. Whether they’re Chelseas, military style lace-ups or brogues, it’s entirely up to you but let's think pragmatically - you live in the UK - it’s going to rain, so I’d Always recommend leather over suede.
Additionally, Always look for a rubber or leather sole - these provide a much sturdier platform to battle the unpredictable elements, of which we're too familiar.
Denim Shirt
One of the chameleons within the kingdom of apparel, this is a wonderfully adaptable and versatile piece that should Never be underestimated. It’s as comfortable slipping under a wooden blazer, as it is to appear open, paired with a white u-neck t-shirt, shearling jacket and lightweight scarf.
Leather Sneakers
I don’t think there is an item within menswear that has successfully revolutionised the way we approach fashion more than leather sneakers. In the past five years, they’ve broken down the traditional gates of tailoring, infiltrated the walls of corporates and become one of the most functional items a man could own. Here's why it's a 365 day shoe.
Now, the going colour is definitely white but as I said earlier, please think rationally - given precipitation levels are at an all time high during the coming months, a darker option could be what you’re after.
Shearling Jacket
For me, this is an age-old classic that is simply a must-have in any man's AW closet. They’ve enjoyed peaks and troughs within the fashion world over the years but they experienced a big spike in popularity, which coincided with that sensational number worn by Tom Hardy in The Dark Knight Rises.
There are plenty of jackets out there with a shearling collar, especially of the denim variety but I would Always advise you opt for the classic shearling look.
Flannel Trousers
If Spring and Summer are prime time for linen, seersucker and other lightweight trousers, Autumn Winter is absolutely prime for more textured materials I.e. wool or corduroy.
Monochromatic and tertiary colours are your best friend here. Given the material, I’d Never go for a skinny option (a mistake I often see men making). Slim fit would be my advice. It’ll provide you with an elegant silhouette without putting strain in each step. After all, no one likes to feel restricted.
Slim fit - elegant silhouette without putting too much strain in each step.
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