Good news, this season’s sharpest style moves are also some of the easiest to pull off. From tonal minimalism to punk-infused streetwear, menswear has shaken off suited-and-booted in favour of laid-back designs and relaxed fits that look polished without being formal. To get you up to speed and help make the most of your cold-weather rotation, we’ve teamed up with Topman to break down five key autumn/winter 2016 micro-trends you need to know.
Icelandic
If the Nordic countries’ most stylish have taught us anything it’s that neutral is the new black, which basically means you can get dressed in the dark and still find it hard to put a foot wrong. Topman’s updated version of the pared-back look focusses on pale colours and washed-out outerwear, while incorporating all-important texture with suede bomber jackets, salt and pepper overcoats and brushed fibre joggers. When wearing head-to-toe neutrals, the key is to vary your hues to create contrast between each piece. Alternatively, play it safe and break up the look with an overshirt or white tee.
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Next-Level Streetwear
Sharpen your safety pins, punk is alive and kicking. Ramping up the rebellious vibes, the second instalment of Topman’s AAA collection takes Sex Pistol-styling to the streets. Designed in the brand’s New York studio, the range packs a punch with everything from prints to patching and pop culture slogans. Use ripped-and-repaired denim to toughen-up a casual look, or team with oversized sweats and a faux leather jacket to channel the unbridled attitude of the rock ‘n’ roll era.
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Sports X Smart
Whether you’re running laps or running to-and-from the bar, take tailoring to the track and nail luxed-up sporty vibes. Traditionally stiff suits have been given a dressing down for the months ahead, spliced with everything from tailored joggers to track tops and sneakers. Use versatile separates to switch between formal and casual looks (particularly helpful for after-work drinks) before finishing off with lightweight outerwear like a sleek waterproof mac.
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Skate On
Somewhere between the 1960s and today the land of half-pipes and kickflips went from counterculture to the epitome of effortless cool. Chalk it up to athleisure’s rise, or a move towards relaxed-fitting clothes – or just don’t question it and focus on developing your inner skate bro. Play up the old-school vibes with ripped jeans, hoodies and chunky rubber sole sneakers. Actual skate skills not essential.
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Modern Utility
The menswear world is filled with references to the armed forces. So much so that it’s fair to say you’d be hard-pressed to find a piece that didn’t get its start somewhere on the front line. To fight the chill, pair classic military attire with a tonal layering approach by enlisting robust pieces like bomber and field jackets in an earthy palette of khaki, brown and black. When it comes to pulling a look together, be sure to vary colours or risk looking too much like G.I. Joe.
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