Men's winter style turns to heritage

by Rebecca Christou

This season, men’s fashion is all about the heritage look.

Eclectic patterns, clashing fabrics and lots of layering are guaranteed to keep you looking good and feeling toasty as winter beckons.

First up are the knits – cardigans, jumpers, hats and scarves are all better when they are chunky.

Go for oversized woollens in Fair Isle and Navajo patterns and do not be afraid to clash prints or colours.

Mix different scales of pattern for maximum effect and impact.

If you are print-shy, metallic wool is also huge, with gold, silver and copper all found gracing cardigans and jumpers, either as stitched flecks in the wool or painted all over.

Another addition to your winter wardrobe should be corduroy – it is super comfortable and durable.

As well as high street options, there is a lot of vintage corduroy to be found in charity and thrift stores, which goes to illustrate its longevity and proves that even if you buy new, you really do get your money’s worth.

Shirts, trousers and jackets are all key items this season; think autumnal shades such as forest greens, berry reds, shades of yellow and tobacco brown.

High street presence

The move towards winter has hailed an influx of trims and shearling.  Fleece, corduroy and denim are all being used to mix up cuffs, collars and linings of jackets and coats.

These also look great as part of the mixed-up materials look. Removable trims have a huge high street presence. 

Collars come in all sorts of furs and fleeces, which can be attached and removed from the lapel of your garments as and when you please.

Not to be forgotten from last year, the quilted jacket is still very much a favourite. There have been some modifications, such as Topman’s pastel and jersey jackets with contrasting trims, to keep it fresh.

So if you are bored of the traditional greens and blues, brighten up your winter outer-layers without having to compromise on comfort and functionality.

For those days when it is too cold for just a T-shirt, but not bitter enough for a coat, a gilet is just right. Think heritage chic and channel your inner-gardener with leather patches, green hues and tweed trims. These look great with a white T-shirt and classic jeans.

If you are looking for a more waterproof coat, massive mod-inspired parkas are a weatherproof, classic choice. Many of this season’s jackets and coats are purposely oversized, allowing extra room for all the baggy jumpers and layering that is popular this winter.

Harris Tweed

A further big player in this season’s fashion stakes is tweed. It has been creeping onto the high street for a while now, and it is about time it had some of the wider-spread respect it deserves.

The famed Scottish brand Harris Tweed is celebrating its 100th birthday this year and has a number of pieces available at Topman. Think tweed hats – from flat caps to trappers – farmer-chic waistcoats and even canvas tweed-print plimsolls.

Footwear should, most importantly, be warm and waterproof. Mid-tops that stop just above the ankle look great with rolled up slim-fit trousers and come in a variety of leathers and synthetic materials that are perfect for cold weather.

Boot shoes, which were exceptionally popular last summer, have been revamped. Leather replaces suede, because suede is more likely to get ruined in the rain. Wear with thick, woolly socks to update the look and keep out the cold.

Brogues

Brogues and desert boots are also a great choice, with sturdier models springing up to suit the change in season. Boots with shearling linings – inspired by Burberry’s ubiquitous biker boots – adhere to the layered, clashing look perfectly. Dr. Martens are replacing last winter’s military-style boot, and these are perfect for when the English snow brings the capital to a grinding halt and you have to walk everywhere.

When choosing trousers, consider cuffed ankles, as they streamline your silhouette when you wear them with clunky boots.

Do not overlook accessories. It is true when people say that they can make or break an outfit. Chunky, grandad watches, statement rings and pendants all compliment the heritage look.

To stand out, choose feathers, autumnal enamels and animal designs, wearing several pendants or a fistful of rings for extra style-points. Gloves and hats also complement the country-luxe trend – leathers and sheepskin are long-lasting options.

This winter is all about being warm and comfortable but at the same staying in-line with your weekly allowance. Durable fabrics are a better investment than impulse-buys and are key for your wardrobe and your wallet!

Remember, buy wisely and you create a timeless wardrobe that you can use for years to come.