ALPHA MALE: Layering for Early Fall
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Rule 1: Start with the basics
My rule of thumb is to always start with your basics, and as I mentioned last time, think about what is appropriate to the demands of your day. On top, a solid color crew or V-neck T-shirt or cotton button-front shirt; Now that Fall is coming, think cotton broadcloth or flannels—something with a bit more substance and texture. On bottom, heavier weight chinos in Twill or Canvas, or splurge on that new pair of dry, raw indigo dyed denim like I do every Fall to really feel like you are making that transition in your wardrobe. Even the versatility of today's Tweeds is not just for stodgy suiting anymore, but a true go-to fabric that excels both in its look and layering ability.
Vary based on occasion
From these basics, start using your judgment based on occasion (e.g., work dinner or weekend party plans) and weather (cool in the evening or cold?). Do not ditch the tie and deconstructed, Twill blazer, but add a lightweight crew neck sweater in between once 5pm hits and your friends want to grab a drink at Happy Hour. Maybe a thin cardigan and denim jacket to go with duck canvas trousers and your pair of gently broken-in suede chukkas would fit that Labor Day beach party as the sun goes down and coastal air draws everyone closer to the bonfire.
Reintroduce color
Once you figure out the tonal layers for Fall that work for you, feel free to work color back into the equation. For today's guy, color does not have to fall out of favor when the leaves begin to drop from the trees. Spring is no longer the only time to infuse your wardrobe with an easy pop of personality that the color wheel brings. I tend to use accessories for this- pocket squares, ties, even socks with a pattern or bright color can take the monotone textures to which your Fall wardrobe subscribes and gives life and liveliness to it. Thanks to textures from layering in heavier fabrics playing against color from accessories, the colder months will suddenly not seem so dull and grey anymore, but a chance to show off your true colors- a guy with an understanding of what works for him in any season.
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