Joe Ottaway’s Style Corner: February
Winter might be coming to an end in this no-man’s-land month they call February, but it's just as cold and grey as it was in January. So the importance of layering hasn't changed. If you're going to triumph over the weather, you'll need some go-to layering basics that are going to work with a range of pieces. Here are three that will stand you in good stead…
The Hoodie
The hoodie has become a popular staple in menswear over the past few years, and any concerns as to whether it has an age expiry date are long gone. My top tip is to choose a lightweight knitted style which can be easily paired under a coat or bomber jacket. For an off-duty look, wear under an overshirt or over a roll neck. Job done.
1. Cashmere Hoodie, £224, J.Crew | 2. Holland Merino Wool Hoodie, £68 (was £98), Reiss | 3. Cashmere Hoodie, £110, J.Crew | 4. Thermal Waffle-Knit Cashmere-Blend Hoodie, £335, James Perse
The Roll Neck
Whether you're taking inspiration from Steve McQueen or just need a lightweight, everyday piece of knitwear, the roll neck is the ultimate staple. In classic navy or grey, it can be the perfect bridge between February and early spring. To help you get maximum versatility, use the same tip I recommend when buying shoes: invest as far as your budget can stretch – a good-quality light gauge wool can last for years and offers multiple outfit combinations.
1. Cashmere Roll Neck, £260, Luca Faloni | 2. Wool With Cashmere Roll Neck Jumper, £69.30 (was £99), M&S | 3. Sea Island Roll Neck Sweater, £225 | Sunspel | 4. Extra Fine Merino Wool Roll Neck Jumper, £55, John Lewis
The Grey Sweatshirt
The grey jersey sweater is the chairman of the board when it comes to mid-season essentials. Comfy enough to chill out at home in, but good enough for a weekend brunch, it looks great worn over a t-shirt or a classic chambray shirt. But my favourite way to wear the look is under a navy wool coat, drawstring trousers, with a pair of Common Projects and a navy wool cap. Avoid logo-adorned sweat tops and choose a classic option from Sunspel or Arket. You will be reaching for this little beauty for weeks and months to come.
1. Loose Heavyweight Sweatshirt, £69, Arket | 2. Cotton-Jersey Sweatshirt, £225, Orslow | 3. Loopback Sweatshirt, £120, Sunspel | 4. Relaxed Fit Sweatshirt, £9.99, H&M
The New Collection To Know
The ‘new normal’ has created a wave of brands trying to balance the style of classic casualwear with the functionality and construction of activewear. This collaboration between Castore and Reiss embodies this perfectly: these are pieces that allow you to look good and stay comfortable. Whether you’re looking to elevate your gym kit or add a few contemporary essentials into your wardrobe, it’s a collection that’s well worth a browse.
1. Miles Hybrid Shell Gilet, £125 | 2. Ezra Raglan Sleeve Performance T-Shirt | 3. Hugo Quarter-Zip Merino Blend Jumper, £135 | 4. Cole Lightweight Running Jacket, £185
ACTION PRESS/SHUTTERSTOCK
The New Trend To Know
Over the years, Pitti Uomo in Florence has evolved from a formalwear trade fair to a defining event for the whole of menswear. It’s the place to spot the next key menswear trends and last month we saw perhaps its biggest ever jump forward. Gents sporting three-piece suits and beautifully tailored double-breasted suits on the streets of Florence were replaced by men in casual tailoring, collegiate knits, directional streetwear, chunky rubber soled boots and – believe it or not – sneakers. White jeans and trousers in particular had a moment.
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