THE JOURNAL

It might feel like an obvious statement, but you don’t need to refresh your entire wardrobe in order to refresh your look. Accessories – those little finishing touches – are far too often overlooked when it comes to men’s style. It’s easy to stick to a rotation of hats, jewellery and bags that go with your outfit, but take a little time to put some thought into your accessory choices (and how you wear them) and they can take your ensemble from great to glorious. In terms of what to try, just take a look at the latest runway shows and collections to get some clever ideas for how to up your accessories game. It might be a statement (or even double) belt from one of your favourite brands, or a jaunty bandana neckerchief as seen on the most stylish guys at the shows. Next time you’re getting dressed, try one of these and let the compliments come flowing in.
01. The statement belt

There’s nothing wrong with a great plain or woven leather belt; they do their job admirably day to day. But those reliable trouser-holder-uppers are breaking through this season and demanding to have their own moment. Runway shows for both SS24 and AW24 collections saw belts coming to the fore, with statement buckles, wide-woven styles, buckles worn off-centre and stacking of multiple thinner belts. For off-catwalk dressing, we think a bold buckle is the way to go, like this burnished metal and black leather example from Acne Studios. Style with a cotton tank top for full impact (coincidentally, also a big trend for the season ahead), and, if you’re feeling bold, introduce more texture around the waist by layering your jeans over visible cotton boxers.
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02. The contemporary signet ring

An eye-catching signet ring is an effortless way to add a little interest to your daily outfit, as it doesn’t actually require you to rethink your look or styling. Simply slip it on to add another point of focus. It’s not just us saying this, either – tongues are already wagging about Dexter Mayhew’s ring in Nextflix’s One Day. Is it set to become the new Connell’s chain? Whatever your feeling about Hollywood heartthrobs, though, this white-gold and emerald signet ring from SHAY is bound to suit you. It’s a modern take on the usually traditional piece, making it a versatile choice that is ideal for pairing with other simple silver jewellery.
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03. The vintage-inspired trucker cap

Quality, hard-wearing workwear and classic Americana styles continue to reign this year, particularly when taking inspiration from hand-crafting techniques or with a sustainability angle (a focus of ours here at MR PORTER, as we strive to champion responsible manufacturing through our Craftsmanship Code). The rough-and-ready vintage look can be taken up a notch with a trucker cap, like this one from Japanese brand KAPITAL, known for its mid-century references and heritage production techniques. To really complete the look, we suggest adding a neckerchief. This naturally dyed indigo bandana by Blue Blue Japan adds an extra level of sartorial intrigue when worn over a retro tee or shirt – and, naturally, with a structured chore jacket thrown over the top.
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04. The playful diamond earring

Many men shy away from stones when picking jewellery, but you needn’t be afraid – a bit of bling can go a long way. The diamonds on the pendant of this two-part earring from EÉRA are inlaid on green enamel, creating a masculine checkerboard pattern from afar. For a punchy look, pair with a bright statement sweater that complements or picks out the colours of the earring (go textural with mohair if you’re after more directional styling). Alternatively, clip off the pendant and wear the white-gold and diamond hoop on its own for a sophisticated low-key vibe. We guarantee it will take a casual weekend outfit or sleek evening ensemble to a whole new dimension.
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05. The coloured-lens sunglasses

Sunglasses are the perfect accessory to push your style boundaries. An item that you don’t wear every day, that is usually worn with the sun on your face, and often on holiday? Immediate good vibes. A trend we love that easily injects a little creative flair to any look is the coloured lens. A blue, green or yellow tint hums with vintage cool, especially when set in an oversized acetate frame, like this pair from Jacques Marie Mage (inspired by none other than Italian racing driver Mr Enzo Ferrari). And, if “mob wife” is the look du jour for women, why not lean into mob boss?
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06. The mixed-stone necklace

We’ve discussed bling, but what about colour? Mixed colourful stones and gems are having a real moment, and while we don’t go in for just any old trend, this is one we’re happy to make our own. The way to keep this looking chic is to ensure whichever piece you choose is of the highest quality. For example, this necklace by Shamballa Jewels is threaded with sapphire, emerald, guava quartz and diamond-encrusted 18-karat gold beads. It will bring a summery edge to whatever you wear (much needed at this point in the year), which could be a vest and cardigan, as shown here, or perhaps an open-neck shirt in a luxe fabric for a night out.
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07. The elevated grunge cross-body bag

As with sunglasses, bags are a great way to play around with and try out different trends and looks, as they can be swapped in and out with your primary essentials. You don’t need to go full grunge, for instance, to bring some distressed military edge to what you’ve got on. This cross-body bag by READYMADE is crafted from authentic army surplus canvas (duffle bags, to be precise) and lined with orange leather for an unexpected pop when you open it up to stow your daily essentials, which will fit with ease. As for our styling suggestions, this casual KAPITAL cardigan and a pair of carpenter trousers bring the whole look together.