THE JOURNAL

Back-to-work season is a bit of a silly concept. We’re no longer schoolchildren – and most adults don’t get the whole summer off. (Although, notably some nations have perhaps a healthier approach to this.) So, the idea of going “back” is, well, a figment of our collective imaginations. However, there is something sweet in the notion of having a designated time, the autumn, to review our working wardrobes and give them a little refresh. And, as temperatures begin to drop, we must pack away our warm-weather bits in favour of some stylish layers and seasonally appropriate accessories. Need a little inspiration? See below.
01. The everyday Officine Générale shirt
Injecting a subtle touch of colour into your everyday rotation can be as simple as swapping out a white shirt for one with coloured stripes. Take this one from Officine Générale – its green pattern makes a welcome alternative to classic navy and white styles. It’ll look great with grey and black suits but will team just as well with jeans at the weekend.
02. The Polo Ralph Lauren fits-everything tote
September is a time of new beginnings, so it’s only right you treat yourself to a little something to get back into success mode in style. Or not so little – there’s generous room for pretty much anything you want in here. Nevertheless, this tote by Polo Ralph Lauren is the perfect combination of rugged and refined – a reliable companion for everyday commutes and business trips alike.
03. The Brioni trousers that mean business
These Brioni Capri trousers may share a name with one of Italy’s most paradisiac islands, but it’s once you’re back from vacation that you’ll get the most mileage out of them. Cut in a smart straight-leg shape, they have neat front pleats that enhance the fluid silhouette. Wear yours with a knitted polo or a rollneck come winter.
04. The boardroom-ready Brunello Cucinelli shoes
An enduring pair of Derby shoes such as these by Brunello Cucinelli will take you to the style C-suite but are sure to serve you beyond the boardroom as well. The supple hide will get softer with time, making them even more comfortable after years of wear.
05. The all-purpose Paul Smith jacket
Casual Fridays may allow you to switch things up from your everyday suit, but no sartorial choice is left to chance with this exclusive-to-MR PORTER bomber jacket by Paul Smith. The tactile suede will develop a beautiful patina and gain character over time, while the two-tone hardware allows you to wear mixed-metal jewellery to match.
06. The snappy TOM FORD cardholder
When they say “put your money where your mouth is”, they probably do not have sticking your bank cards in the jaws of a crocodile – a predator perfected over the course of 145 million years – in mind. The leather used for this cardholder by TOM FORD is actually calf; the croc effect is just that. Still, it looks snappy.
07. The sharp Loro Piana mohair suit
It’s called the International, and perhaps we should all agree on this masterful suit by Loro Piana as the global standard for a top-tier two-piece. Hand tailored using time-honoured techniques, the lined jacket features notched lapels, while the trousers come in a complementary mid-rise, straight-leg shape. You would have to try hard to not look good in this.
08. The time-is-money Cartier Santos watch
It’s not like Gordon Gekko is the only person ever to wear a Cartier Santos watch. However, in the context of the workplace, he might be the guy that comes to mind. The same iconic model in stainless steel, rather than flashy 18k gold, might place you as a more approachable, my-door-is-always-open kind of colleague. But there’s no messing around: you still mean business.
09. The breezy Frescobol Carioca polo
Dress for the workplace you want, not the one you have. Keep that in mind as you samba between meeting rooms wearing this polo shirt by the Rio de Janeiro-inspired brand Frescobol Carioca. Knitted from modal and linen in a piqué stitch, and drawn from our Consciously Crafted edit, it will help you waft through an airless office with just the hint of Copacabana about you.
10. The iconic LOEWE Puzzle messenger
11. The slick Dunhill car coat
As the name suggests, the car coat emerged along with the automobile of the early 20th century. Back in the early days of motorsport, three-quarter-length outerwear in a heavy cloth or leather was a necessity in an exposed carriage. Which isn’t to say that, today, you need a classic convertible for the commute to make the most of this sleek super 130s merino-twill piece by Dunhill. But if you’ve got the coat for it…