Stuff for the spring pt. 2

6. Denim jacket

I’m really into denim jackets right now. After watching Drive for thousand times I was really convinced that I have to buy one. 

Instead of gettin’ some light daddy washes get rather dark wash or totally raw like Ryan has in the movie. It has to fit really snug almost like a cardigan. If there is any bagging get it tailored or just leave it to the store.

Wear it with chinos and tees or henleys. You can also try layering it under a blazer.

7. Tees, henleys and/or polos

The basics. Be sure to have these in your closet.

In my opinion a good tee has a rather big and sloppy neck and a chest pocket. It gives a nice look with cardigans, denim jacket and blazers. In addition of basic colours get some nautical stripes.

I prefer henleys short sleeved and in basic colours like cream and light grey. Wear them with jeans or chinos, throw in a pair of canvas sneakers and you’re good to go.

Polo shirt is a true summer essential. Get at least white and navy. Pair them with shorts and drivers (don’t forget the shades).

8. Canvas sneakers

Summer won’t come without pair of canvas sneakers. Everyone has their own favourites, Supergas are mine. 

Sneakers are absolutely my favourite summer shoes. I wear them mostly with some really casual pieces but why not pair them with a cotton suit for the night out?

White is really the classic and after hard use they really start to look like you. Don’t be afraid of stains.

9. Shorts

Some might say that the gentleman will never wear shorts in the city. But when it really gets hot just go for it. 

All those man capris and others shit is just horrible. Good shorts are short enough to show your knee and are perfect mix of slim and relaxed. I’m looking for a navy pair that has pleats and cuffs (and a reasonable pricetag).

10. Shawl cardigan

A shawl collared cardigan made of cotton is your best friend in chilly summer nights and cooler days. It easily acts as a jacket and you can wear it with casually or pair it with white chinos, blue shirt and tie for cool smart/casual.

As I stated get one made of cotton or linen and in navy (surprise). I’m sad to say that I missed a Beams+ linen cardigan last summer. It was really pricey but it would’ve been a perfect cardigan for me. 

In general I’d want to say that buy less and buy better. Build your wardrobe on basics that are versatile and can be used daily.

Stuff for the spring

Spring is here soon. I guess that many of us is already thinking of things you should get and the outfits to wear. 

Here are some stuff that I will buy or have already bought.

1. Unstructured jackets

Yeah, I always start my “essentials” with these. They are my favourite items and that’s it.

For the spring and summer I have two: blue and beige (this one is actually a part of a suit). Both are made of cotton and have patch pockets. They’re really relaxed and can be worn with many things from tees to ties. 

One thing you should remember is that if your shoulders aren’t that wide you should try little more padded shoulders (or to hit the gym). Unstructured shoulderline only emphasizes pear shaped body. 

2. Casual washed shirts

Light blue washed shirt with semi cutaway collar. That’s the go-to shirt for the summer. You can pair it with jeans and monkstraps or white slacks and blogger blue jacket. Or you can just untuck it and go with shorts and pair of white trainers. 

Light blue and white are the most versatile colours. Pink will also do well. For the fabrics I prefer rugged fabrics like oxford and chambray that feel soft and look washed. I really don’t care of those Sea Island whatsoever luxury fabrics with shiny colours. Ruggedness ftw!

3. Brown chinos

Everyone has classic khaki chinos. How about brown ones? There is nothing wrong in khaki but brown just makes nicer combination with different blues in my opinion. 

If your style is casual get yourself a washed pair with slim but still relaxed cut, roll up the legs and you’re ready to go. If you prefer more tailored style get a smarter pair. Get them tailored (if neccessary) and tell your tailor to cuff ‘em - two inch is preferred.

4. Longwings or plain toe bluchers

These have been on my must-buy -list. Last summer I wore mainly suede doublemonks and white sneakers. This summer I will add pair of longwings to my rotation. 

Rugged bluchers are great for all round wear but I especially like them in  spring and summer outfits. Suede is the best leather for warmer months. Every man needs at least one pair of suede shoes and if you ask me they will be suede monks and/or longwings. Still I’m going to buy my gunboats in regular calf because I already have three pair of shoes made of suede. Alden makes some wonderful gunboats but I have to find an affordable pair that still looks good..

Wear these with jeans and chinos and when it really gets warm try to pair them with shorts and button down. And please do not wear socks.

5. Little bit of colors

My style is basically based on solid colors with a bit of colour. Bright coloured blazers and suits do look nice in pics but in real life.. and if you could pull them off you couldn’t wear them for like few times if you don’t want people to remember you as “the guy who had orange jacket”. 

Colorful scarf or pocket square is great way to add that little spot to your outfits. Socks will also work just fine. Just don’t overdo it! Keep it simple and have just one piece per’ outfit.