The Greg & Maiya Mash-Up: Our Man-In-The-Know Styles Our Resident Model
Q: I'm going to the south of France for a big 40th birthday. It's a stylish group of guys, but I always veer towards classic dressing. Can you help me come up with a beach club/poolside look that isn't too 'out there' but will help me keep up with the rest?
A: The beach club/poolside look is a lot tougher to get right than you think. You want to make sure it’s as cool as it is practical, considering the fact that it needs to transition from chilling by the pool or on the beach to the bar or restaurant where you’ll be catching up with friends. Days out at beach clubs are notorious for starting early and finishing late, so your outfit needs to evolve as the day goes on, too.
Here, the hat, shades, and espadrilles have been paired with a linen jacket that can be thrown over the shoulder later in the afternoon or early evening. The tonal colours make it easy to mix and match and to layer and de-layer accordingly.
Poplin Double-Breasted Blazer, 59.99 (was £89.99), Zara | Slim Fit Fine-Knit Polo Shirt, £17.99, H&M | Linen Cotton Bermuda Shorts, £29.99 Zara | Suedette Weave Belt, £20, River Island | Split Suede Mule Slippers £39.99 (were £59.99), Zara | Cotton Twill Cap, £3.99, H&M | Polarised Sunglasses, £12.99, H&M
Q: I'm starting a new job in July. It's not a corporate environment, but my role involves lots of client meetings, so I need to look good. Can you help me come up with a failsafe first day look?
A: Choose a colour palette that can be mixed and matched – you can always create multiple outfits with a strong core (straight leg white denim and a light blue shirt is always a stylish combination). Over the top, a suede field jacket is better for daytime, while a navy blazer works well for evening. It’s nice to also mix and match the fabrics – it gives the look more richness and texture and makes your overall outfit look more expensive. A solid Oxford shirt will anchor any look because it’s versatile and timeless. Finally, if you want to be taken seriously in any professional setting, make sure the footwear’s good.
Q: I’ve been invited to a UK wedding in August, but I'm bored of navy suits. What else might work?
A: I often find myself asking friends what they plan to wear to a wedding and most of them – close to 99% – say a navy suit and a white shirt. So, thank you for asking this question.
Considering that the wedding is in August, you’re going to want to opt for summer fabrics – seersucker, linen, silk, cottons – and if you own a navy suit already, that’s where you should start. Use the trousers as an anchor, before adding some summer flair with a contrasting jacket. Sometimes, it’s okay to go slightly less traditional with a grandad-collar shirt. Complete the look with a pocket square that matches the colour of your shirt, and for flourish, roll the cuff of your shirt over your jacket – just make sure it’s neat.
If you’re in the market for an entirely new suit, forest green is an equally smart choice – but one that looks a bit more modern. It also works with most complexions, which is a bonus. A double-breasted jacket steers further away from the conventional and adds a touch of European flair.
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