CLOTHES MAKE THE MAN

Men are currently turning to classic items that will be fashionable for years: investment pieces that will age well and not fall apart after one season. The Harrington jacket, for example, has seen a huge boom recently.

Outerwear must be able to withstand the British winter; and the classic beige fly-fronted Mac is a perfect solution. Mackintosh do the original and best, but a Burberry trenchcoat is a close second. For high street alternatives, Uniqlo have great trenches, and Topman have a functional – if slightly overdesigned – range of peacoats. They also have a lovely velvet-collared Crombie for a smarter look.

There are some great options for button-down shirts; the classic Brutus shirts are back in action this year, and Aertex have some great, slim-fitting styles available at Philip Browne in the Lanes.

Match these with loafers, especially Bass Weejuns, (a rare but handsome find) although good alternatives are popping up everywhere. Or brogues: a good pair has at least 500 holes. Check out urban Loake Royals, or the chunkier Alfred Sargent. Always choose leather soles and have them resoled: they will last forever and improve with age.

Denim is being paid more attention; seek cheaper options at Topman, or Uniqlo (selling real Japanese selvedge denim for a song), or splash out on Levi’s 511s.

The look is smart and classic, but not uptight. Make your statement through combinations of colour and texture; layering is key, topped off with Ray Bans and a wool scarf, or a trilby in inclement weather. Suited and booted.

MAX GORDON
WRITER