A few clients have asked me to touch on men’s sportswear for fall and I consider the request an honor. I will do my best to oblige!
As the weather turns so pleasant in these parts, the first thing we discuss should be outerwear.
Try the new “Storm System” outerwear with cloth woven in pure cashmere. Here luxury with function rules; Soft, cuddly Cashmere that repels water and is as warm as toast. They wear and feel like bathrobes and serve the insulated purpose. The length should hit just above your knees. You’ll find Loro Piana & Zegna doing outstanding styles here and many collections will show the concept.
There are also innovative leathers being shown with nylon inserts that act as removable vests. There being done in brown and black and are either finger tip or hip length.
The distressed leather look is very popular now and merits your review. Although many lines of outerwear are showing this look, John Varvatos, Gimo’s and Zegna seem to have the best handle.
When the overcoat comes off there could be new jacket that looks like a sport coat and act as sportswear. Some have the the nylon insert mentioned above, that double into vest variations.
Varvatos, Corneliani and Robert Graham are doing great looks in this area.
Sweaters of all styles; Cardigan, V-neck, Crew necks and zip-Polo’s are being layered on sports shirts with open collars. The natural colors of Olive, tan and browns are very versatile with trousers in brushed cottons, corduroy and wool flannel. Cashmere and Merino wools, some blended with silk are happening here. The leaders in this arena are Gran Sasso, Luciano Barbera, Raffi and Zegna although many others do similar looks.
With regards to sport shirts there are a lot out there. The cool ones have contrasting fabrics inside the collars and cuffs, with some strong colors and patterns. Others feature a different colored thread on the buttonholes that’s very modern.
These are cool worn outside of the trousers but their saying that they should be tucked in. Who they are is still a question to me but they tell the fashion story!
Robert Graham, Etro and Arnold Zimberg immediately come to mind here and in the more classic mode are Zegna, Luciano Barbera and others.
As always the ultimate look is accomplished in the details!
Accessories like hats, gloves, and scarfs not only wrap you in warmth and comfort, they also add a dimension to express your individuality.
Hosiery in fancy patterns, belt buckles with some interest and shoes in pebble grain leather or suede matched primarily in browns and tans are also essential to a well rounded look so don’t overlook them.
You can find some of the items listed here at stores like Neiman Marcus and Bergdoff Goodman. You can also contact Jack at 216-831-0488. He’s a long time friend and one of the most astute professional in this area I’ve ever known.
Remember…
DRESS PASSIONATELY!
