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 Gucci briefcase
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 a tablet in here. Nevertheless, this briefcase by Gucci is timeless and works well with pretty much everything. It’s certainly worth the investment.
02. The Massimo Alba striped shirt
Injecting a touch of colour into your everyday rotation can be as simple as swapping out a white shirt for one with coloured stripes. Take Massimo Alba’s – its purple 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.
03. The timeless Church’s loafers
04. The two-piece ZEGNA suit
ZEGNA’s two-piece suit makes a particularly smart investment – both literally and figuratively – in the in-between months. Its double-breasted jacket and straight-leg trousers are tailored from the brand’s proprietary Trofeo wool-twill, a superfine Australian merino prized for its softness and breathability.
05. The exclusive Jacques Marie Mage cardholder
Jacques Marie Mage is known for its impeccably crafted, 1970s-inspired sunglasses. But its leather accessories are just as good. Particularly if it’s a practical, compact leather cardholder that’ll easily slip into a back pocket or briefcase. Bonus points – it’s exclusively available at MR PORTER.
06. The dress-down Fridays Brunello Cucinelli jacket
“Casual” Fridays are about to get a stylish upgrade with Brunello Cucinelli’s shell jacket. Defined by thick ribbing to hold its otherwise relaxed shape, it has a pointy collar that’ll still look smart over a shirt or rollneck.
07. The AMI PARIS logo wool cardigan we heart
We’d say this cardigan’s heart is in the right place, but it’s designed for a looser fit, so the Ami de Coeur intarsia motif likely sits further to the left – more so if you wear it flapping open. It is, however, oversized, an indication of the big, big love we have for this soft, 100 per cent wool piece from AMI PARIS.
08. The substantial Dries Van Noten overcoat
On overcoat should be exactly that – all over. And this all-consuming, double-breasted number from Dries Van Noten is just the thing to cocoon yourself in until spring. It features sloped shoulders for a nonchalant shrug and cavernous lapels for fending off the cold.
09. The ample Jacquemus wide-leg wool trousers
“Trying different ways to make a difference to the days,” as Mr Graham “Suggs” McPherson put it in ska-pop band Madness’ 1980 hit “Baggy Trousers”. And if you’re looking for a means to cut through the monotony of getting dressed for work every morning, this pair by Jacquemus will add some pep to your step, not to mention waft to your lower half.
10. The autumnal toned LOEWE Puzzle bag
The runaway success of LOEWE’s Puzzle bag is unlikely to leave many stumped. Mr Jonathan Anderson’s debut design for the storied Spanish brand only launched a decade ago, but feels like it has always been with us. Especially in this tonal brown and red suede, which has something of the Victorian gentleman detective about it. All homes – and Holmes – should have one.
11. The stainless-steel Ballon Bleu de Cartier watch
Cartier didn’t just invent the wristwatch, some 120 years ago. The jewellery designer continues to reinvent it, with the Ballon Bleu du Cartier being a prime example. Introduced in 2007, this elegant pebble-shaped timepiece still catches the eye – with its sunray-effect dial and blue sword-shaped hands. Say your time is important without saying your time is important.