Modello Momento Style: 5 Key Transitional Pieces For Autumn 2014

Preparing For Autumn/Winter

It seems that summer is well and truly over . Wardrobe wise, socks are firmly back on our feet and shorts are being stored away for another year, making way for lightweight outerwear and extra layers to help combat the rapidly dropping temperatures.
Although we’re not yet in full-blown autumn/winter mode, the transitional period is very much upon us – bringing with it a spate of awkward days to dress for. Too wet for a simple t-shirt and jeans combination but still too warm for a coat, unpredictable rain showers and fluctuating hourly temperatures are just some of the factors we now have to consider when getting dressed in the morning.
With this in mind, today we break down five key items that every man should have in his wardrobe ready for autumn 2014…

1. Roll Necks

After years spent in the fashion wilderness, roll necks are trending again for AW14.

Depending on the type you opt for, a roll neck can be used to add a touch of effortless chic or masculine ruggedness to any autumnal look. A fine gauge version in cotton, merino wool or cashmere is a sophisticated garment that looks just as good dressed up with a slim-cut suit as it does dressed down with a leather biker jacket.
A chunky knit, on the other hand, is not only cosy and practical in the cold, but makes a great standalone statement piece – bringing a tactile edge and classic outdoors/heritage feel to your ensemble.
However, for the transitional season, we suggest sticking to fine gauge styles. Versatile and breathable, they can be layered effortlessly within both smart and casual looks without causing you to overheat.
Try using yours as a shirt and tie replacement during the working week, teaming with twill chinos and a rain coat, bomber jacket or chunky shawl neck cardigan at the weekend.

Fine Gauge Roll Neck Lookbook Inspiration

Men's Fine Gauge Roll Neck Outfit Inspiration Lookbook

Key Styles

Burton Burgundy Roll Neck Jumper
Topman Merino Blend Black Roll Neck Jumper
Antony Morato Silk Mix Roll Neck
Next Roll Neck
Next Roll Neck
Uniqlo Men Extra Fine Merino Polo Neck Sweater
River Island Dark Mustard Roll Neck Jumper
Gucci Fine-gauge Wool Rollneck Sweater
John Smedley Belvoir Merino Wool Rollneck Sweater

2. A Pair Of Sturdy Boots

Footwear has long been considered the most important element of any outfit, in terms of both style and comfort. With rain set to become a constant menace as we progress into autumn, give your feet the protection they deserve by investing in a decent pair of waterproof boots.
Buy well and these boots will not only last you until next summer, but many years to come – especially if you take care of them properly.
Outdoor specialist brands such as CAT (currently experiencing a revival), Timberland, Diemme and Red Wing offer a wide range of rugged worker and hiking silhouettes for casual dressers that deliver not only in terms of style, but durability and practicality too.
However, those who desire something slightly more refined should look no further than Goodyear-welted styles produced by British manufacturers like Grenson, Church’s, Trickers, Cheaney, Loake and Crockett & Jones.
When purchasing your new boots, here are some key guidelines to consider:

Leave room for a chunky sock. Come winter your sock drawer is going to have to step up, and that means your boots had better not be too tight. A thick sock peeking out the top of your boots is also a great way to introduce some colour to a dreary winter outfit.
Prioritise craftsmanship, high quality leather uppers/linings, cushioned insoles, and thicker tread/rubber/vibram outsoles that will keep you sure-footed in any condition.
Don’t go too slim. Although menswear continues to move in a more streamlined direction, these boots should be considered a practical addition to your wardrobe and therefore not too skinny/flimsy.Other than traditional hiking or worker silhouettes, a tall, chunky brogue or dress boot can also be considered. However, short desert or Chelsea styles, although smart, just aren’t going to cut it as we progress into winter.
You get what you pay for. Don’t expect high quality from fast fashion brands. Invest as much as your budget will comfortably allow and buy the best you possibly can. Remember these will get good use for many more seasons to come and, ultimately, your feet will thank you.

Once you’ve pulled the trigger, dress them up with textured trousers and tweed blazers for the quintessential ‘town meets country’ look, or combine with other workerwear staples such as leather jackets, flannel shirts and raw denim jeans for an effortlessly cool, masculine approach to your transitional attire.

Lookbook Inspiration

Men's Rugged Boots - Transitional Season Outfit Inspiration Lookbook

Key Styles

Grenson Joseph Toe-cap Boots
Timberland Classic 6 Premium Boots
Dr Martens Mens Black Leather Hide Boots
Cat Colorado Boots
Red Wing Chukka Boots
Diemme Roccia Vet Boot
Cheaney Pennine Pebble-grain Leather Boots
Red Wing Shoes Rubber-soled Leather Boots
Moncler Matterhorn Scarpe Boot

3. A Lightweight Raincoat

A lightweight waterproof coat is one of the most important investments you can make for autumn – after all, few things ruin an appearance quicker than a limp, soggy pompadour and see-through shirt.
Remember that this piece is your first line of defence against the unpredictable autumn elements, so look for slightly longer styles that finish around mid-thigh. Key silhouettes to consider this year include single-breasted macs, double-breasted trenches, unlined parkas and traditional raincoats.
Yet no matter what style you opt for, prioritise fabrics that are durable and fit for purpose: waxed or rubberised cottons are ideal due to their breathable yet water-repellent nature. Other key features to look out for include bonded seams, adjustable fit sleeves and drawstring hoods, which will negate the need to carry an umbrella.
The type of jacket you plump for will come down to how and when you intend to use it. Those wanting a smart and refined option that will protect them on the morning commute should look no further than a mac or trench from traditional British heritage brands like Burberry, Aquascutum or Mackintosh. Pick one up in a versatile camel, grey or navy shade and it will combine effortlessly with any of your existing suits.
For those whose everyday style leans towards the casual end of the spectrum, a hooded raincoat from specialist labels such as Stutterheim, Rains or K-Way makes a practical addition to any wardrobe. Opt for a slim cut to maintain a streamlined silhouette and consider a shot of colour to brighten your off-duty looks in an uncomplicated fashion.
Finally, don’t dismiss the parka jacket. This military derived classic has undergone a renaissance over the past couple of years and an unlined version with minimal bulk is the ideal alternative to the slightly more obvious options highlighted above. Pick one in timeless army green (set to be a major colour trend for AW14) and it can be dressed up or down with ease, bringing a rugged, masculine touch to any outfit.

Lookbook Inspiration

Men's Lightweight Raincoats - Transitional Season Outfit Inspiration Lookbook

Product Picks

Sisley Reversible Trench Coat
Jack Wills Farnaby Wax Jacket
Lightweight Cotton Festival Parka
Topman Burgundy Lightweight Parka
He By Mango Tailored Cotton Trench
Rains Stone Waterproof Jacket
Ben Sherman Green Lightweight Parka
River Island Yellow Bellfield Hooded Rain Mac
Reiss Talbot Single Breasted Cotton Mac Stone

4. Something In Orange

Sidestepping practical considerations for a moment and bringing it back purely to fashion, orange is set to be THE major colour trend for AW14 and it’s definitely a hue that you should start working into your wardrobe immediately.
There isn’t a particular citric shade that stands out this year, nor a singular piece you should buy it in. From blazers and trousers to t-shirts and accessories, let your current wardrobe, personal style and confidence levels dictate your choice.
If you’re looking to keep things subtle and refined, burnt orange is a wonderful tone to work with. Adopted alongside a charcoal or navy suit, this rich autumnal hue brings a fantastic accent to neutral tailoring, without overpowering it or sacrificing your professionalism.
With this in mind, a piece of fine gauge knitwear, a tie or even a pair of socks in this deeper shade would be a great investment, helping breathe new life into your office attire.
Outside the office, brighter shades will give your casual wardrobe a lift on those drab off-duty days. A statement shoe, accessory or piece of outerwear would see the colour get plenty of wear during the transitional period and beyond – brightening your look and mood in the process.

Lookbook Inspiration

Men's Orange Clothing - Transitional Season Outfit Inspiration Lookbook

Key Styles

Asos T-shirt With Crew Neck And Rolled Sleeve
Sandqvist Enzo Canvas Backpack In Orange
He By Mango Garment-dyed Cotton Chinos
Raf Simons Sterling Ruby Cotton-jersey Sweatshirt
Ben Sherman Shawl Collar Harrington Jacket
J Lindeberg Lymann Orange Merino Wool Jumper
Rust Shawl Cardigan
London Undercover Collapsible Bamboo-handle Umbrella
Falke Airport Wool And Cotton-blend Socks

A Gilet

An item that continues to polarise the opinion of FashionBeans’ loyal readership, a gilet is arguably the perfect layering piece.
A lightly padded, down-filled version is ideal, with it able to slip seamlessly between a shirt and blazer or used over the top of a jacket/knit for extra insulation. With this in mind, steer clear of old school puffa styles that are too bulky to wear as a middle layer; severely limiting its versatility.
Your gilet should fit similar to a waistcoat: cut slim through the body with high armholes to ensure your silhouette remains streamlined and sharp. Uniqlo do stand-out ultra light down gilets at an extremely affordable price point (£29.90) and should be your first port of call, especially if you’re still undecided on the style.
Elsewhere, SuitSupply and HE By Mango are offering a strong range of tailored styles this season. Gilets also played a huge part in their autumn 2014 lookbooks (see below), and those that like to pay attention to the finer details should note how both brands saw the breast pocket as a perfect opportunity to introduce a pocket square.
Although neutral versions will slot seamlessly into any of your current go-to looks, why not consider a bold coloured design? It will add a statement punch to your tailoring on the morning commute, and its effect can be easily neutralised by layering a jacket or blazer over the top of it.
Alternatively, kill two birds with one stone by opting for an on trend orange colour way.