The season of celebration brings lots of opportunities for men to ditch the drab and have a bit of fun.
As the days draw longer you can’t help but think about those opportunities summer offers to spend time with friends and family. There will be social gatherings, dinners and parties to look forward to and get dressed up for. There will of course be plenty of summer weddings for those tying the knot and for those in attendance. But what should you be wearing?
This season at Working Style we are really excited about the neutral colour tones of our sportscoats – the foundation of an outfit. The colour spectrum spans from a light chalk (think ‘80s
Bryan Ferry) through to tan and chocolate, which are all really easy to wear because they go with a large variety of coloured trousers. We have highlighted the collection with blues
and greens.
In addition – and something new – striped blazers this season will offer up the chance of a contemporary take on a boater blazer. While not as punchy as what you would find at the Henley Royal Regatta, this style adds a point of difference. We suggest your stripes be more subtle as not to impact on your versatility.
Ties are fun again, now worn by choice, and should have a little personality. Our current collection has nods to the ‘70s and ‘80s in its design. These can look right at home with either a cotton or linen button-down collared shirt, a style that is having a moment again as the menswear influence moves to slightly preppy.
Trousers are still being worn tailored and slightly cropped for those comfortable enough to do so. This gives the opportunity to show a little ankle, be it wearing invisible socks or no socks (don’t forget to moisturise if you’re going sockless – nothing worse that scaly dry skin on show), or socks with some considered colour or design. If you are prepared to embrace a shift from your slim-cut, flat-front trousers, try a fuller fitting pleated trouser. These are incredibly comfortable to wear and perfect for a warm day.
For the guys out there who are yet to get themselves a pair of loafers, this is the only shoe you need for summer – and to be fair, has been for the past three summers. These now come in a variety of styles, as a driving shoe, tailored loafer or your classic penny loafer. A chocolate brown should be your first choice, but these are great to wear in a navy blue or taupe suede, too. All these styles can be worn with chinos, jeans and shorts.
For anyone attending a wedding this summer, you might like to consider wearing a cotton suit. Suits were always the go-to for weddings for a reason – they look great. But by wearing one crafted in cotton, you can achieve a softer look without losing the kapow! Wear an open-neck plain or patterned shirt underneath, or maybe a T-shirt or polo for a more relaxed look. You can also wear each piece separately for work or play, or perhaps you might just prefer to wear them with your newly acquired loafers and freshly moisturised ankles and see where the night takes you.
Karl Clausen is the creative director at Working Style. Drop in and see him at the Oxford Terrace store or visit workingstyle.co.nz