THE JOURNAL
Yes, the new season is now in full swing. No, you don’t need to completely overhaul your wardrobe to keep up. While trends come and go, and eventually go round in circles, the smartest move here is to make simple yet strategic swaps.
It’s all about seasonal style refreshers that slot easily and complimentarily into your existing rotation. Start small with a knitwear update, for instance, or opt for a shearling jacket in lieu of your classic down puffer. Below are five easy wardrobe swaps to get with the current season – without looking like you’re trying too hard.
01. Swap a crew-neck sweater for a crew-neck cardigan
Some would argue that we’re in the age of the cardigan – particularly the crew-neck cardie – thanks to the likes of Paul Mescal, Timothée Chalamet and Jacob Elordi. The buttoned front allows for more layering options for autumn and winter, so this seems like a no-brainer. Different iterations of the woollen essential come courtesy of mfpen, Auralee and Dolce&Gabbana – and here’s our guide to do it right.
02. Swap a down jacket for a shearling jacket
From purely practical to seamlessly polished, this is a move that will require some thought. Once the warmth factor is guaranteed, you’ll want to assess which silhouette fits best with your existing wardrobe. There are classic styles from Paul Smith and Ralph Lauren Purple Label. Or a refined take on the blazer by ZEGNA. The key is choosing a handsome, high-quality hide that is sure to weather well over time.
03. Swap a button-down shirt for a flannel shirt
Sure, your classic button-down shirt is versatile – for the office or off-duty. However, a flannel shirt will really come into its own this season. Its ability to add a rugged edge to any look and its usually tactile weave will make it one of the most dependable staples in your sartorial arsenal, especially in the cooler months. CELINE, Officine Générale and Polo Ralph Lauren are particularly good at making them, blending a certain vintage sensibility with contemporary design and top-quality fabrics.
04. Swap penny loafers for tassel loafers
Allow us to reintroduce you to loafers – this time with a little more depth than the classic penny variants that have dominated trends over the last couple of seasons. There’s ample choice on the MR PORTER shelves, from woven leather styles by Gucci – which are sure to add a touch of textural interest to both casual and formal outfits – to the more understated profiles of Mr P. and Church’s top-stitched styles.
05. Swap flat-front trousers for pleated trousers
Wide-leg trousers are this season’s dominant silhouette. And if you’re looking for a slightly dressier way to hop on the trend, the answer is in the pleats. They create more space and a naturally flowing drape, making the overall fit a tad more comfortable, but particularly if high at the waist. And they confer the whole look a sense of effortless formality. Some of our favourite tailored pairs come courtesy of Stòffa and Brioni, and look to Mr P. and AGOLDE for everyday chinos.