The Capsule Wardrobe
Here at FashionBeans, we talk a lot about curating the perfect capsule wardrobe: a collection of simple, versatile and classic pieces that you know will never fall out of style. They are the type of items that can be mixed and matched effortlessly to create looks for any occasion. It’s a concept that appeals greatly to men who want to appear stylish and put together on a daily basis, without having to spend the earth or constantly revamp their personal style. But where should you start if you are looking to build a successful capsule wardrobe? After all, revamping your personal style and spending your hard-earned cash on new clothes can be a daunting proposition, not to mention expensive. Luckily, high street favourite H&M have come to the rescue with the release of their superb new ‘Modern Essentials’ collection…
H&M Modern Essentials
For AW14, H&M have pulled together a curated collection of key pieces that they view as ‘modern essentials’. The range is designed to be a complete autumnal capsule wardrobe, and includes everything from shirts, tailoring and outerwear to accessories and shoes. Paying close attention to quality and fit, items are well cut and constructed in premium materials such as cashmere, linen and leather, bringing a sense of luxury to everyday dressing. Below we break down some of our favourite pieces:
Key Piece: The Herringbone Blazer
Every man should own a well-fitting, cold-weather blazer that is versatile enough to be dressed up or down. H&M’s tailored herringbone jacket (£59.99) hits just the right mark with its lean cut, which creates a contemporary yet classic silhouette that’s suitable for all occasions. The jacket’s wool-blend construction and faux leather detailing helps bring the piece to life, adding a welcome shot of texture and character to any ensemble. It comes fully lined and features a single chest pocket, front pocket with flap, three inner pockets and buttoned cuffs. Dress it up with a classic white button-down shirt, slimline trousers and black leather Derbies for formal occasions, or down with dark indigo jeans, a checked shirt and boots for a night out.
Key Piece: The Crew Neck Sweater
With the rise of sports luxe, the crew neck sweater has developed into a modern essential. This timeless version (£34.99) comes in a vibrant teal hue and has been made from a cotton and cashmere blend for a soft and comfortable feel. Featuring a waffle texture and leather elbow patches for a heritage feel, it would look just as good layered under a blazer as it would worn on its own with chinos at the weekend.
Key Piece: The White Shirt
A classic piece of menswear and true wardrobe essential, the white button-down shirt is every guy’s bread and butter. H&M’s version (£19.99) is made from stretch cotton for a fitted appearance, and features a contrast navy turn-down collar for a contemporary, individual twist. There’s nothing this shirt won’t go with; dress it up with a suit and tie for the office and dress it down with jeans and your herringbone blazer for a meal in a restaurant.
Key Piece: The Pea Coat
The pea coat is an excellent winter through spring outerwear option that oozes masculinity and looks great on all body types. This wool-mix version from H&M (£79.99) features a subtle herringbone pattern, fitted cut and distinct collar, offering a fresh take on a timeless silhouette. It comes complete with side pockets, two inner pockets, tab and button cuffs, and a vented back.
The Collection
The rest of the Modern Classics collection continues in the same vein, offering timeless basics with a modern twist. For example, the white cotton jersey t-shirt (£9.99) incorporates subtle embroidered text to the left breast, while the blue organic cotton denim shirt (£19.99) features a darker contrasting yoke. Every man should own a navy suit, and H&M’s matching navy blazer (£59.99) and trousers (£29.99) combination will carry you effortlessly from the office to after-work drinks. Not only that, these items can be split up and worn with the other pieces in the range to create dressed-down looks for a variety of social events. Elsewhere, chinos (£19.99) come in a seasonally-appropriate burgundy hue and are made from soft, washed cotton to ensure they’re comfortable for everyday wear, while dark jeans (£19.99) in environmentally-conscious unwashed stretch denim bring a rugged and masculine feel to any ensemble. Every man knows the importance of great footwear, and the Modern Classics collection yet again delivers. Offering premium leather silhouettes that are suitable for work and play, including smart black Derbies (£39.99) and brown boots (£69.99), our favourites have to be the dark grey double monk-straps (£39.99) complete with burnished toe – the epitome of sophistication. As for the finer details, gloves and belts come in high-grade leather while a matching 100 per cent cashmere scarf and beanie will help keep you warm in a luxurious way this autumn/winter:
Final Word
H&M’s Modern Classics collection offers every piece that the modern gent needs to see him through the upcoming colder months. With a clear focus on quality fabrications and cuts, this is effortless, contemporary dressing at its finest. You can shop the full range now at HM.com. 
