We have it so much better
When it comes to fashion, men have it easier than women in a variety of ways. Although trends and collections are a reflection of the surrounding environment, usually influenced by prominent stylish personalities, when it comes to menswear the cyclic changes are much more subtle than those of our female counterparts…While there are also seasonal trends such as particular prints, garments or even wearabilities, the pages in which menswear is written have a century-old patina cemented over years of gentlemanly tradition.
In a way, this allows us to seamlessly update timeless attires by mixing trendy, up to date details instead of purchasing a whole new wardrobe…Ok, maybe not an entirely new wardrobe, but it’s a fact that women tend to buy more at cheaper prices, and (most) womenswear strongly sails with this flow. For men, you just know that some garments will always be classics and survive the test of time and passing tendencies: say a 2 button navy blazer or a perfect fitting suit - buttons, lapels and cut may vary or reminisce but if you stay within a certain spectrum, chances are they’ll stay with you for a long time.
So for us gentlemen, it all comes down to the old mantra of buying less but better: invest in quality pieces, splurge on essentials and save on ethereal garments. Not only will you feel more confident and look flawless, but at the end of the day you’ll end up with pieces you love, ultimately saving money and making your life much easier when it comes to getting dressed in the morning…
Photos by Park & Bond
Source: beyondfabric
Mcnasty Woodland Camo Desert Derbies for Park & Bond
Q:Hi there, Truly an inspiring blog you have, thanks a lot! I have a question about my search for the perfect summer jacket; I'm searching for a jacket that is versatile - so I want to wear it with a denimshirt or simple t-shirt but also with an more dressed way (shirt + cardigan + tie). And because it's for the summer, I prefer it to be colorful (light red for example). Hopefully you can help me with some suggestions. Thanks again :) Kind regards, Andy
Anonymous
Hi Andy, thanks for the support!! =) The search for the perfect summer jacket may pose somewhat of a challenge, especially when you throw light red to the mix. For me, it should be unstructured, fully unlined or just sleeve lined and made from a lightweight fabric such as cotton or linen. Several brands offer these features although with different price tags, but since you didn’t mention a budget, I’ll leave with some alternatives to cover the whole spectrum:
- Boglioli
- Barena
- Beams + (the closest to light red)
- YMC
- Zara
Hope this has been of help!
Best,
Miguel Vieira
On Headgear
One of the most underated and often obliviated pieces which comprised men’s wardrobes of old is definitely the hat. What was originally a mandatory complement to a gentleman’s attire, has currently become a taboo item for most men.
Seen strictly as a Summer piece for its functional aspect, due to the scorching heat we’ve been progressively experiencing, the hat’s glamorous and confident nature is at risk of being lost for good. Easily traded by its casual counterpart, the cap, the sight of a luxurious hat perfectly complementing a sharp attire is becoming increasingly hard to behold. Even more so, since it’s usually associated with older gentlemen and not something young men should try. Thankfully there are a few exceptions to the rule, be it older men to whom the hat has become a defining trait or younger men who have come to embrace it.
I, for one, have always been fascinated with them and ironically, my lack in the hair department posed the perfect excuse to purchase a few. Now, as with most accessories, a hat is one definitely worth investing in…ditch the 5$ beachside sale straw version and go for a quality one. Choosing between the variety of models out there is not to be taken lightly (porkpie, fedoras, bowler, trilby…) and the choice should reflect your facial anatomy. This is one of those times when listening to the salesman might be invaluable, provided he/she is a professional and knows about the subject, which is usually the case in specialized hat stores.
Fine hats might cost you up to to 500€ (if you go for handmade panamas) but there are more affordable alternatives out there in the 100-200€ range. Borsalino is definitely one brand to look for, but several others are already dishing viable alternatives: Paul Smith, Lock & Co., Barbisio, to name a few…Also, do consider a wool/cashmere version for the upcoming season, it just adds elegance and a gentlemanly feel to your attire.
Borsalino’s offerings in the season’s shades: camel and burgundy
