Joe Ottaway’s Style Report

Joe Ottaway’s Style Report

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When it comes to giving fashion advice, few are more qualified than Joe Ottaway. Now David Gandy’s stylist, he has been head of personal shopping at Selfridges, done stints at Harvey Nichols and Mr Porter, and heads up his very own OttawayStyle.com. From brands to know to trends to follow, he knows what’s what in the world of fashion, which is why we’ve nabbed him as our new monthly SLMan contributor. Over to you, Joe…

The world of men's formalwear has changed so much over recent years, with relaxed tailoring becoming more popular and relevant to a modern-day man's lifestyle. Even though I am a great believer in not being dictated to by on-trend moments in a season, I’m pleased the men's formalwear landscape is evolving to suit more contemporary needs.

However, I also strongly believe that over 200 years of formalwear heritage shouldn’t disappear overnight. With sustainability at the forefront of everyone’s mind, the need to invest in good-quality, timeless garments is stronger than ever before. Pieces need to provide maximum versatility to become the bedrock of an evergreen wardrobe. 

P. Johnson is a new brand blazing a trail as the first established luxury tailoring brand from Australia. Patrick Johnson combines traditional Italian craftsmanship with Australian irreverence, and he’s found the secret to scrubbing up in an age when the classic suit, shirt and tie is less relevant. His understated, elegant, effortless, comfortable style is how a modern gent wants and needs to dress for an ever-evolving world. Alongside the signature soft tailoring is a range of elegant accessories and leisurewear, and a timelessly stylish range of ready-to-wear pieces made in limited numbers. P Johnson has boutiques across Sydney, Melbourne, London and New York. For those, like me, who are leaving their 30s behind soon and love to look elegant but appropriate, P. Johnson will be your 2021 best mate.

Visit PJT.com

Made iconic by the great Steve McQueen, the desert boot is as hot in 2021 as it was in the 60s. Timeless and functional, it’s the ultimate wardrobe staple. There are a host of brands that offer desert boots, some staying true to the traditional DNA of the boot and some giving them a more refined and luxurious spin. If you are in the market for the latter, turn to Brunello Cucinelli for the ultimate luxury. With a reputation for classic Italian design and minimal branding, Cucinelli has designed an impeccable luxury take on a classic. 

The key to wearing the desert boot is to keep things simple and effortless. Whether you're looking for a laidback look for Sunday brunch, or an alternative to a trainer, wear them with a stonewash pair of cotton trousers, or white jeans and a grey crew neck T-shirt, or a chambray shirt accompanied by a navy shawl cardigan. 

Alessandro Squarzi is an Italian entrepreneur and talent scout. Founder of an eponymous consultancy as well as menswear brand Fortela, he is one of the most photographed Italian men in the world and regularly tops the style charts with his daily Instagram outfits. It's refreshing to see a gent not wearing a hoodie and sweatpants, and still looking effortlessly stylish.

Follow @AlessandroSquarzi

Visit OttawayStyle.com and follow @JoeOttaway

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