High Quality, Affordable Menswear
When we heard that F&F had decided to put on a dedicated runway show to launch its autumn/winter 2014 collection earlier this year, we were sceptical. A label renowned for producing affordable clothing, we were unsure how it would translate to a traditionally high fashion environment.
We needn’t have been worried. Some of the industry’s biggest names – Jon K, Sam Webb, Bill Huxley – strode down Somerset House’s catwalk in classic, well-fitting pieces that were effortlessly mixed and matched to produce a range of stylish looks, both smart and casual.
The overall aesthetic was the epitome of FashionBeans’ ethos, classic with a twist, with both timeless and trend-led pieces blended together seamlessly. At the time, we couldn’t help ask ourselves – is this when quality menswear truly becomes available to the masses?
Yet, as we all know, professional models are paid to make clothing look its best, so we were keen to see the full collection in the flesh and get a feel for the garments ourselves. Again, we weren’t disappointed…
F&F AW14 Menswear Collection
The new F&F AW14 collection focuses on the core pieces that every gent should have in their cold-weather arsenal. Heavy coats, sharply-cut tailoring and varying weight knitwear takes centre stage, sitting alongside a wide range of well-made staples that will set the foundation of any successful capsule wardrobe.
The palette utilised is classic and refined, with black, navy and charcoal grey mixed with rich, seasonally-appropriate hues such as teal, berry and wine.
Fabrication and patterns also play a huge part, with heritage motifs such as herringbone updated via scale and colour while on-trend winter florals help inject life and vibrancy into a traditionally dreary season.
Formal Wear
With menswear continuing to move in a more refined direction, a solid collection of suits and separates has quickly become a must-have for the contemporary gent.
For AW14, F&F’s tailoring range has utilised traditional techniques to create razor sharp suits in slim silhouettes. Able to be dressed up or down for the occasion, windowpane checks and tartan patterns lend a modern slant to proceedings, while timeless navy, grey and black versions start at an unbelievable £30 and will quickly bolster any formal wardrobe.
Elsewhere, printed shirting and textured knitwear will help bring a whole new dimension to your smart-casual looks:
Outerwear
A selection of high quality outerwear is essential for autumn/winter, with UK residents having to deal with unpredictable weather and sub-zero temperatures on an almost daily basis.
With this in mind, F&F’s AW14 collection places great emphasis on the importance of the coat – offering everything from sharp double-breasted overcoats and sleek macs for the morning commute, to rugged pea coats and effortlessly cool bomber jackets that are perfect for off-duty days.
Updated in modern fabrications, including coated cotton and hardy wool-blends, they offer the ideal mix of fashion and function:
Knitwear
The backbone of any successful autumn/winter wardrobe, knitwear is another highlight. Coming in a variety of fabrics, weaves and designs, F&F’s AW14 lines are perfect for adding depth and character to your cold-weather ensembles.
Key pieces include mid-weight cable knits and fine gauge roll necks, ideal for layering under a tailored jacket, as well as chunky cardigans and seasonally-appropriate Fair Isle jumpers that will make an effortless statement worn with jeans at the weekend:
Final Word
It’s clear to see that F&F has broken ground with their new AW14 collection, offering style-conscious gents a selection of high quality pieces at a truly affordable price point.
What’s more, with free UK returns on every order and a ‘click & collect’ service that enables you to pick up your order at your local Tesco store, it has never been easier for you to experience the range for yourself.
So what are you waiting for? The new F&F autumn/winter 2014 menswear collection is available now in stores and online at F-F.com.
