Everything: green tweed suit, camel overcoat, orange highlights on the bandana and brown shades to top it off…
Source: beyondfabric
Cut me some slack…
The widespread concept that dressing up is uncomfortable couldn’t be further from the truth. However, it seems to have become the number one excuse for people to cruise around town in sweatpants and running shoes, especially during the weekend. Don’t get me wrong, but if most of us are “sartorially restrained” by a work imposed etiquette five days a week, one would expect that on the remaining two, people would want to look their best. Want sweatpants’ comfort? Stay in and enjoy your couch.
As I see it, looking good is essential to make you feel good and thus make the most of your free time! And that can be easily achieved with a V-neck sweater, crewneck tee, grey slacks and sneakers…What’s uncomfortable about that?
Fit details: cotton v-neck sweater by Purificacion Garcia, crewneck tee by Levi’s, wool slacks by Gentleman, Ibsen sneakers by Paul Smith, cashmere/wool cap by Ralph Lauren, Wayfarer sunglasses by Ray Ban, bracelet by street vendor and watch by Rolex GMT Master II
Model and Styling: Miguel Vieira
Beyond Fabric suggests…
This time around, inspired by the days off I’m currently enjoying, I’ve decided to put together a more beachy look. When it comes to warm weather attire, shorts are one of the most controversial items: “purists” discard them on behalf of lightweight linen or tropical wool trousers, whereas many consider them a Summer essential. I for one, believe shorts are a great alternative when the temperature rises, given that you pay as much attention to fit as you should would with any other item.
These creased military green cotton cargo shorts by Ovadia & Sons are some of the best out there: fitted, breathable and overall stunning. Pair them with a slim fitting polo shirt, the perfect alternative to take a rest from shirts but still present a more polished look than with a simple tee. To face those late chilly afternoons and add a splash of color to the mix, it doesn’t get much better than this orange cotton v-neck sweater by Purificacion Garcia. Ditch the flip flops for a pair of canvas espadrilles, put your Clubmasters on and don’t forget to pack your towel and sunscreen in your canvas tote.
Polo Ralph Lauren Slim Fit Pique Polo - € 80.00 @ Mr. Porter
Jordan Cargo Shorts - (approx.) € 110.00 @ Ovadia & Sons
V-neck cotton sweater - € 32.00 @ Purificacion Garcia
Navy Boat Espadrilles - € 25.64 @ Asos
Striped Shopper - € 19.95 @ Zara
Ray Ban Clubmaster - (approx.) € 103.00 @ Ray Ban
Round it up
Apart from the main elements which comprise an ensemble, one of the most essential add-ons is definitely shades. They are one of the few accessories whose design is as relevant as functionality: sunglasses not only enhance your aesthetic, they also protect your eyes from harmful sunlight. In fact, chances are you’ve grown so accustomed to them that no matter the time of the year, you won’t leave the house without a pair.
When it comes to models, we’ve been experiencing somewhat of a revival moment, with many of the successful models of old making a strong comeback (you need only take a look at Ray Ban’s latest reissues of the Wayfarer, Aviators and Clubmaster). One of the trends which seems to be picking up is that of round shades à La John Lennon.
Although eyewear should be picked according to one’s face, to ensure adequate framing, if you’re lucky enough to look good in these, you should definitely pull them off. I would advise on going for the originals, trying to snab a pair off Ebay or thrift stores, but for those of you who prefer them new, here are a few options…
Raf Simons vs Linda Farrow
Mykita
Oliver’s People
Ralph Lauren Purple Label
Ray Ban
The low V-neck sweater
One of the most important aspects when it comes to knitwear, besides fabric and cut, is the shape of the collar. Among all the available options, the v-neck sweater is probably the most elegant and versatile of the bunch, being easily dressed up or down as you pair it with a tee or a shirt and tie. Make no mistake, not all V-necks are created equal, and within the spectrum you’re offered several variations: higher, lower, wider…
A higher stance V is the most common type, but I’d like to express my love for the low V-neck sweater. In colder months when layering is a necessity, and walking out the door with nothing but a shirt under your jacket will most likely turn you into a popsicle, this is one of my favourite pieces. Its lower and wider stance allows you to portray the shirt+jacket ensemble (while keeping warm) as it’s easily concealed by your outerwear. Plus, if you’re a fan of neckwear, few other pieces allow you to show just the right amount of shirt and tie, while keeping them perfectly framed.
When looking for this type of sweater I believe it’s best to go with thicker fabrics, with some shape to them, as very lightweight, thin fabrics may end up looking loose and baggy, depriving them of the elegance and framing assets. Scottish brand Lyle & Scott offers some great options in outstanding quality wools which are definitely worth checking. Here, I paired mine with a navy peacoat and a shirt+tie combination, stressing the aforementioned framing effect and drawing attention towards the tie. Also, this is the kind of Winter day when you should throw on your white jeans: sunny and freezing cold.
Navy melange peacoat by Paul Smith, greyish blue low v-neck sweater by Lyle & Scott, striped dress shirt by Carolina Herrera, white slim fitting jeans by Massimo Dutti, brown brogues by Henry James Shoes, sunglasses by Ray Ban (aviators), vintage tie, argyle socks by Calzedonia.
