Out Clubbing
If asked to, I believe I wouldn’t be able to pick just one favourite shirt among those I own, but this custom contrast club collar would definitely make it on to the top 5. There’s a certain unique elegance (and versatility) surrounding that rounded collar: although some might argue it begs to be paired with fancy neckwear, be it a tie or a bow, it can easily overlook them for a differentiated buttoned up sans tie look. Moreover, if you’ve been wanting to sport that brand new collar pin, there are few shirts out there as suited for it as this one. One aspect to keep in mind though, is that this model is supposed to be worn buttoned…much like double breasted jackets.
I’ve been sporting it often recently and similar models in different colors and patterns have already made their way into my wishlist. As with every shirt, fabric plays a very important role regarding the suitability and formality attributed to it: a finer fabric will reward you with an exotic dress shirt, whereas oxford cloth makes them the perfect match for that special pair of worn out jeans. This look combines several striking items, such as the checked navy peacoat, houndstooth elbow patched cardigan and the shirt itself, but they all blend in together as none is overwhelming. The emphasis is on the small details: hues darken as you approach the outer layers (light blue, grey, navy), tones are complementing among pieces (tie and patches) and the silver tie bar just adds that extra flare…
Checked navy wool peacoat by Paul Smith, grey wool/cashmere cardigan with houndstooth elbow patches by Annapurna 5+1, custom made light blue contrast club collar shirt by Gentleman, Levi’s 511 slim fitting jeans (tailored), Portuguese boots, vintage brown knit tie, vintage brown braided leather belt, silver tie bar by Tie Rack.
Going green…
Over the last few months I’ve developed a growing passion for green. Previously an almost nonexistent tone in my wardrobe, I have been becoming fonder of its versatility and stylish appeal, which led me to purchase a few new items and dig up others that had been stored away for a while…
Darker shades of green (hunter comes to mind) have been the order of the day in many Fall/Winter collections this year, making a stand as a great alternative to the traditional color palette of blues, browns, grays and blacks. It’s a perfect match for your slim fitting dark blue jeans, grey slacks or khakis, adding interest and richness to your overall look.
This look is all about mixing and matching pieces from different backgrounds and styles, such as the vintage Harris Tweed blazer purchased at Portobello market in London, the military inspired hooded shirt and the brown tasseled loafers. I love trying to come up with new combinations and uses for my pieces, such as pulling off the double shirt look by using the military shirt as an overshirt, which worked out great since its adjustable button closure allows me to perfectly frame the woolen tie and decide how much to show. Also, the use of two plaid patterns in different scales (blazer and tie) adds that extra bit of flare and visual appeal to the whole attire.
Vintage Harris Tweed blazer, military hooded shirt by Osklen, white oxford button down by Ralph Lauren, dark blue jeans by Levi’s (511 Slim), brown tasseled loafers by Lottusse, plaid woolen tie by Coisas d’Homem, watch by Gucci and socks by H&M.
New Year’s attire
Here are a few pics of both me and my brother on New Year’s Eve. Taking into account that we spent the night outside, cruising the streets of our hometown in what consisted of a more casual programme, our outfits were adjusted accordingly: blazer, shirt and tie combination and slim fitting jeans. I was struggling with whether I should risk a bowtie but in the end I went with this regimental tie. How about you? What was your outfit for the night?
Me: Charcoal blazer by Rice, white button down oxford by Ralph Lauren, v-neck pullover by Massimo Dutti, jeans by Levi’s (511 slim), brown brogues by Henry James, argyle socks by H&M and regimental tie by Gentleman.
My brother: Vintage navy velvet blazer, pink dress shirt by Hugo Boss (slim fit), pink v-neck pullover by Massimo Dutti, jeans by Levi’s (511 slim), Portuguese boots, vintage tie, gold pocket square by Labrador and scarf by Épice.
