Green and Burgundy
Most likely not the first color scheme that comes to mind when thinking about Fall attires, both green and burgundy (on their own) are two of the season’s staples. Although I love trying new combinations within my wardrobe, I have to give credit for this one to Fábrica dos Chapéus who recently sent me one of their outstanding fedoras: a custom version featuring a rich burgundy grosgrain stripe over dark green wool: in a word…perfection! Taking a new approach to the art of hatmaking (more on that on a future post), this model has an uneven brim which is shorter on the sides and longer at the front providing an edgier, yet elegant silhouette. The hat served as an inspiration and was the core piece, allowing the rest of the look to fluidly pull itself together making use of complementing shades and contrasting textures.
Details: wool herringbone blazer by Gentleman Tailors, cotton/wool cardigan by H&M, candy striped oxford button down by Our Legacy, perfect shape cargo pants by Uniqlo, suede Wallabees by Clarks, custom wool fedora by Fábrica dos Chapéus, vintage checked wool tie, vintage pocket square and striped socks by H&M.
Model and Styling: Miguel Amaral Vieira
Source: beyondfabric
Rome: day 4
Despite the mixed opinions regarding cargo pants I have to say they won me over, especially if we’re talking about slim fitting alternatives. Cucinelli is king when it comes to cargos (and so many other things), but until I can afford to dish out +€450 for a pair of pants, this version by Uniqlo is the next best thing. Plus, when you’re traveling those extra pockets definitely come in handy. Some basic layering on top with an oxford button down, cardigan and timeless denim trucker adds texture, color and visual interest. However, the whole look is focused on the vintage white knit tie I got the day before at a flea market for €1; white is the last color I would ever consider purchasing a tie in, and I probably wouldn’t have if it weren’t for the price, but the truth is it actually works great with darker shades.
Details: denim trucker jacket by Levi’s, navy merino wool cardigan by Purificacion Garcia, dark green oxford button down shirt by Ralph Lauren, khaki slim fit cargos by Uniqlo, brown/navy suede boat shoes by Buttero, sunglasses by Ray-Ban, vintage wool knit tie, vintage braided leather belt, watch by Gucci, socks and scarf by H&M.
Shot @ Piazza di San Lorenzo, Rome
WIWT - Layering up: wool herringbone blazer by Gentleman, Eskdale vest by Barbour, snow wash denim shirt by Our Legacy, crewneck tee by Levi’s, slim fitting cargo pants by Uniqlo, argyle socks by Calzedonia and brogues by Henry James Shoes.
Styling: Miguel Vieira
Photos: Rita Lino
Shopping at massive retailers
As you might’ve noticed, when it comes to shopping I’m a fan of small independent boutiques. Given the choice, they’re my go to place should the need arise to purchase a specific item.
Nowadays, however, we can’t deny that some of items available at massive franchises such as H&M or Uniqlo, are worth checking out. It’s a fact that many of the times the quality of saids items is somewhat doubtful, but if you browse them thoroughly your patience will be rewarded…as will your bank account. Let’s face it, unless you’re fortunate enough to have a privileged financial status, or you’re an outstanding shopper who carefully picks his acquisitions, building a wardrobe solely on high end clothing will pose a daunting task.
The thing is, in my opinion, women are better off in this field: the overall design and quality of womenswear at those retailers is better, making it easier for them to pull of a million dollar look with only 50€ or so. When it comes to menswear though, I find it more of a challenge to put up a great look only with such pieces, as the outcome will most likely appear a bit off, be it due to cut, fabric, shape or design. So…what about us?
Well, I believe there are a few tips to successfully score great items at these stores. First, carefully scout the place and analyze the pieces that caught your eye, don’t be afraid to touch them to get a feel of the fabric, take a look at the labels, scan the seams and stitching, and of course, try them on. Face it as a challenge, finding a needle in a haystack…Secondly, stay away from strong image statement pieces: noticed the bold striped sweater on the window? So did the other 5000 guys that entered the shop; by avoiding these pieces you drastically reduce the chances of bumping into a handful of guys wearing the same as you. Furthermore, people won’t immediately know where you shop, which as I see it, is a plus. Last, but not the least, keep an open mind and try to envision the potential of each garment; some of them will look like a whole different story after being adjusted at your tailor.
That being said, some of your best bets at these stores are accessories and understated or basic pieces which will remain anonymous, such as jeans, tees, cardigans, hoodies or shirts without striking features. Here are a few options:
Oxford cotton shirts by Uniqlo
Pale blue linen blazer, cotton chinos and ties by Zara
Cotton hoodie and cardigans by H&M
