Borrowed From The Boys
Tailoring is steeped in tradition. From the wardrobes of world leaders to the centuries-long know-how of Savile Row, suiting, in all its structured glory, instantly evokes power and strength. Carefully considered lapels, pockets and buttons are part and parcel with a bespoke process, as well as selecting something special off the rack.
This season, you needn’t book a flight to London’s famous suit-making street to partake in the prestige that comes from classic menswear. Designers are adapting elements of time-honoured pieces and imbuing them with a subtlety that, while evocative of their menswear predecessors, is fully feminine.
The intersection of structure and softness is easy to spot at Max Mara Weekend where a 60’s-inspired tweed swing coat is treated to an oversize collar, patch pockets and covered buttons. When paired with other clean-lined pieces, like Xacus’ white shirt, Autumn Cashmere’s crewneck sweater and Cambio’s cropped trousers, the coat’s timeless design details can really sing.
Cinzia Rocco makes a convincing case for crisp lapels, defined shoulders and nuanced neutrals. An elegant riff on a classic camel coat, your outfit becomes all more compelling when teamed with Autumn Cashmere’s tonal cashmere sweater and Circolo 1901’s glen plaid suit.
Speaking of plaid, Cinzia Rocco’s double breasted maxi coat has serious longevity and will add a touch of class to everything from Cambio trousers to joggers. Menswear can manifest itself in unexpected ways too, including a pop of pink, courtesy of Line’s classic cardigan.
No well-rounded outerwear collection is complete without a streamlined silhouette. Eleventy’s sleek sand-coloured coat is a no-fail option for dressed up and dressed down occasions alike. For a refined take on the trend, try pairing it with a matching mock neck sweater, this one by Eleventy, and a pair of clean-lined trousers.
