Robson Stannard sits on a bright red metal bench outside the Derek Rose store on Marylebone High Street, chatting away to a man. I break into their conversation, and this man is introduced to me as Tom, here to film for socials. My eyes dart around, thinking I’ve just walked in the frame mid vox-pop, I’m assured I haven’t. Phew! I peer into the store - for those who aren’t experts in the bedroom, Derek Rose is famous for their pyjamas; specifically silk pyjamas, robes, really anything to lounge luxuriously in.

“I forgot my paintbrushes” Robson quips. I laugh. He’s serious. “So are you finger painting today then?” He checks his phone, and confirms his husband isn’t far away. We take the opportunity to catch up, while feeling the soft fabrics on the rails, both exclaiming how we want the cashmere shawl neck cardigan sitting proudly in prime position of the store.

Paintbrushes safely delivered, we sit down. Stannard is in a white t-shirt, jeans and JW Anderson shoes. Draped on the chair behind him is a Derek Rose Flannel shirt, too warm to be worn in the direct sun. The small round table placed in the window of the store, captures the curiosity of passersby, who can’t help but take a peek at the human mannequins sitting there. Perhaps it’s the beautiful red flowers painted across the panes by Stannard that’s catching their attention, after all that’s why we are both here. As part of their new season launch, Derek Rose commissioned the artist to decorate the shop windows of their London stores, and today he’s painting live portraits in their flagship.

Hanging above us is a large painting by Stannard, a man in paisley pyjamas and a robe, the image taken from the brands latest campaign. Beside us bottles of acrylic paint sit out of view under the window. He tells me he likes to use “acrylic paint and mixed media, [because] I like the juxtaposition it can create.”One by one, Robson picks up a bottle, and squeezes the paint gently onto his palette. As he starts with black, he tells me how the brand reached out back in Spring, now a dark red, about a previous projects he’s done for brands, by the time we reach the greens, I’m distracted, no, captivated. The acrylic paint slowly whirling out the spout, glistening in the midday sun, the considered placement of the colours grouped on his palette. Under these fresh mounds of paint lies dried remnants of previous art - the large block of pinkish red and white must be from the window art next to me, I wonder if he can remember what painting each splotch relates to. As the lid to the white paint snaps closed, Stannard looks at the prepared palette, I refocus - exhale - now we can both begin.

The Suffolk born artist now resides in a trendy North London neighbourhood, but he tells me it is his countryside upbringing that brings inspiration for his floral trademark.

“Having the ability to access nature has informed my colour palette and led me to begin collaging flowers. Immersing myself in nature when I need inspiration”

He starts by sketching the outline of my profile. It feels unusual to be perceived in the context of proportions. He takes his time, and I ask when he tuned his art to the style we see today, “Third year at University”, “I was recently told I’m like David Hockney meets Francis Bacon.”

Happy with where my eyes are in relation to my nose, he starts swirling his paint brush in the paint, mixing some white and green together. There’s a momentary silience as the first stroke of the paintbrush glides across the paper. The foot traffic outside the shop seems to lull, for a moment I forget I’m sat in a shop. I’m not the only one, “For me [Stannard says] painting is an escape and meditative.“

He ponders over the colours, I ask him how he chooses, it’s a question he can’t answer. Blue it is.

Stannard has mastered expressing personality in fashion and home, art imitating life. “Being more expressive with mark making and colour came at a time I was expressing myself more and my clothing choices followed suit.”

Each brush mark made with intent and precision, revealing my image in front of me. This is the first time I’ve been painted by an artist, watching the way they capture your likeness in their eyes is fascinating. We discuss the direction of brands swapping creatives, for cost saving AI, I ask Stanndard his view. “I hope and pray we continue and have the ability to create work that is perceived as art and not questioned to be AI produced.” We are always talking about those who are making AI art, but never those who we may falsely accuse of doing so.

The pace of the paintbrush slows. “It’s always a balance between adding too much and too little, [Stannard makes one last mark] striking the correct balance comes with years of knowing when to put the brush down. [paintbrush down] It’s intuitive.”

He hands me my portrait , a colourful expression of my face, the stripy green shirt I wore specifically for him. I smile down at myself, you’ve made me look rather handsome I say. As the painting dries I ask Stannard, what is his dream collaboration.  “Dries Van Noten, an adaptation of my flowers in textile format.” Now that is a patterned shirt I would buy.

My portrait is placed gently in an envelope, my questions are done, just in time for the little bustle of people at the door peering over my shoulder, eager to take their turn in the seat.

For reasons unknown to me, the idea of man using any bag - other than an ugly sports backpack or excessively large duffle - was always considered a bit “gay”. That was until the world watched footballing star, after star, disembark their jets with one-of-a-kind luxury bags that would rival any consignment store.

It’s not surprising that footballers being paid eye watering sums to entertain men in pubs worldwide, would need something new to spend their money on. For you finance boys, a bag is a sound investment. The ‘Birkin Bag Index’ rates the appreciation of the Hermes Birkin at 14% a year - outperforming the S&P500 - so if you have a spare 5 figures, I can’t think of better stock to back.

According to Google trends, during the World Cup the search term for ‘men’s handbags’ lifted +637%. A surprising uplift considering the slump luxury leather goods has been in. Brands are backing this new direction, 15% of SS27 menswear collections showcased bags, and over the last few years, bags have been spotted, on and off red carpets, on our most beloved male stars.

During the World Cup, the MVP seemed to be a logo’d Louis Vuitton Speedy, or some variation of limited edition Hermes Birkin, all atop a Rimowa suitcase. Not quite as easy to replicate for us underlings, unless you have a private jet. Despite carrying the bags, these footballers don’t quite carry off the look. The over use of same silhouettes and logo-mania makes this feel like another PR relationship. Any celebrity pictured with a Birkin is status message, the more exclusive the better - Erling Haaland reportedly has a collection worth over £1million, including a Limited Edition ‘HAC Birkin 50’ bag valued at £47k.

Instead look to the celebrities who have fully embraced wearing a bag as part of their normal people activities; walking around the city with coffee-in-hand outfits. As seen on your Pinterest boards; Jacob Elordi, Harry Styles, Pablo Pascal and ASAP Rocky, carry off the man-bag effortlessly. Admittedly these are still ££££, with the Bottega Veneta Andiamo is a clear favourite with the boys. However, unlike the pristine footballer bags, these bags are worn in, used and reused with a style that reflects their lifestyles.

Their bags, and how they style them:

When choosing a bag focus on the proportion  versus your body, while a 6’5 Elordi looks chic with the largest Andiamo, when I - at 5’9 - tried it in store it looked comical. Next think about what you actually need to carry; a laptop? Magazines? Gym kit ? Or just your wallet and keys? There’s no point schlepping an empty bag with a few items swishing about. Lastly, choose something that feels comfortable. For a man upgrading from a backpack, carrying a tote on one shoulder takes some getting used to, so start with a cross body to distribute the weight.

Want some inspiration? Here are some bags from my wishlist:

I admit it, I’m bitter. Following a humbling experience trying to squeeze my thighs into pair of pleather trousers once, I hope I’d have time for a few juice cleanses before this trend reared its head again. However Jonathan Bailey stealing the Burberry show with his new floppy hair and tight trousers has me wanting to risk it all, and by all, I mean the circulation to my legs.

Not to be out sexy’d by Bailey, Paul Anthony Kelly swapped his preppy JFK jr look for a pair of Hermes leather pants at the premier of American Horror Story 13. Nicholas Hoult, Alexander Skarsgard and Adrien Brody, all sported leather trousers at the Met Gala earlier this year. So does that mean you should buy a pair too?

If you find a pair that fits, then it’s a worthy investment, don’t repeat my mistake, buy real leather. Wear casually with knitwear, or dressed up with a blazer, keep the styling simple and you really can’t go wrong.

Get the looks

My cummerbund gets as much action as I get black tie invites, that is to say it rarely sees the world outside my tie box. Black silk, made by Brioni, RRP £450, the perfect luxury finishing touch to any tuxedo. Obviously I didn’t spend anywhere near that, I found it for £1 at a King’s Road charity shop, that £449 saving must be my best fashion buy to date. But it’s not in isolation, in any charity shop you’ll find a sad cummerbund used for one event, then kept in a drawer on the off chance a second invite comes through the post, until it inevitably gets swept up in a spring clean. During my recent move I came to terms with the fact I have too much “stuff” and I had to question, why do I own a cummerbund but no tuxedo? However, looking at recent runway collections I may be grateful for my hoarding.

Today, cummerbunds are used to neaten up the waistband, at the point where your shirt and trousers meet, worn beneath a dinner jacket in place of a belt, but its origins were far more practical. Coming from the Persian word Kamarband, worn by Indian soldiers, silk wrapped around the waist kept the core warm when tropical heat drops in temperature. During colonial times European traders and British soldiers adopted this into their wardrobe, officers wore red to match their jackets, while civilians opted for black. Packed in their suitcase for their return to Britain in the late 19th century, the “Kummerbund”, as it was spelt at the time, was about to become a viral sensation amongst Victorian men as a fashionable, and lighter, alternative to the waistcoat for summer events. In true Victorian grandeur, the kummerbund became available in a variety of colours, buckled with gold brooches and jewel appliqué. While in Britain experimentation ran wild with decorative elements, the USA encouraged men to stick to the colours from colonial times of black or red. As the fad faded, the classic black-silk version endured, becoming a mainstay of black-tie dressing for decades to come.

Enough of my history lecture, now to the fun part, their 2026 revival. Pulled out of those charity shop bins, the cummerbund has been reincarnated across a variety of recent menswear runway collections. Here are some brands that I think are doing it right.

Mithridate made the case for bringing the cummerbund from the darkness of the evening and into the boardroom, paired with classic suits rather than tuxedos. Sean Suen gave the accessory a warmer, knitted update, Celine utilised the band to create modernist colour-blocked outfits and Valentino styled the band over the suit instead of under. Kenzo took it in a distinctly preppy direction, pairing varsity-striped cummerbunds with tracksuits and sporty blazers. Connor Ives reincarnated the playful spirit of the Victorian trend with patterned silk iterations, tied nonchalantly around the waist; beneath a suit or mischievously, with an open shirt and silk boxers.

Here’s how to wear the trend:

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Morning 

Oast Bakery 

Found along Northdown road, this cafe is a true locals spot. Great coffee, and an even better array of pastries, with seasonal twists on the classics that will make the decision even harder. Their sourdough loaves are the perfect souvenir to take back too, just get in quick before the locals sell them out. 

Visit their page

Forts 

Tucked behind the Lido, in a quiet spot, Forts is a Thanet favourite. It’s the perfect spot for brunch, whether you go for their eggs or one of their stacked sandwiches, either way you’ll have enough fuel to see you through the day.  

Visit their page

Lunch

Po Boy

You can’t come to the seaside and not have fish & chips, but why have plain fish when you can add some creole spice to the mix. Hidden in a beach hut, in front of the station, this spot truly makes you feel like you’re on holiday. My personal suggestion is to go for their Po’Boy sandwich, its in their name after all, but make sure to get the wild garlic mayo for those Cajun chips.

 Visit their page

Alexandria Cafe

You may not think of Egypt when in Margate, but the Alexandria Cafe is a family run business, with arguably the best falafels in the UK. They have a relaxed atmosphere, great food, and if you are vegan then you won’t be going hungry. Best thing, is they are right in the centre of town, so you won’t have to venture too far from your spot on the beach.

Visit their page

Evening 

Sargasso

Candle lit dinners overlooking the sea on the harbour arm, the location can’t get any better, and once you’ve tasted the food you’ll keep ordering more and more. This is the pinnacle of the Margate food experience. The bar is always well stocked with an amazing selection of the best wines, and the food focuses on simple, seasonal combinations that are big on flavour. The plump anchovies dosed in olive oil, eagerly waiting to be mopped up with the fresh bread is a must have, but make sure to leave room for their desserts.

Visit their page

Sete 

Walking into this Northdown Road restaurant, you would have thought you were in a chic Parisian wine bar. An informal but elegant room, glowing by candle light, is the perfect setting for a romantic evening. The food is paired back, full of flavour, with dishes that change with the seasons. But it is their schnitzel that is well worth those extra steps from the beach. 

Visit their page

Drinks

Margate Off Licence

This quiet spot is perfect to watch the sunset over the sea with a little nightcap. Set in a retro atmosphere that matches perfectly the creative vibe of the town. They keep a well stocked bar, and an insta-worthy beer fridge, but it’s their unique cocktails that will keep you getting the rounds in.

Visit their page

Margate House Hotel

Whilst being the most beautiful hotel in Margate, it also has its own bar, The Drawing Room Bar. Intimate and drenched in a calming pink, this is the the perfect setting for a glass of wine, after turning the same shade of pink on the beach. If you’ve had a few too many and miss your train, then you may be lucky enough to secure one of their rooms for the night.

Visit their page

A sweet treat

Morellis Gelato

You can’t come to the Kent coast without at least a scoop, or two, of Morellis gelato. Their coffee gelato is my personal favourite, but no matter what you choose it makes that sunburnt walk back to the station just a little easier. 

Visit their page

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Shorts for summer, groundbreaking, I know. But in the ‘old money’ style era, everything is a bit neutral, and while I think it's making people dress much smarter, summer is the time to have a little bit of fun with off duty dressing. 

I am specifically talking about linen or cotton styles, I do not want to be seeing swim shorts anywhere not near water. Shorts with side adjusters to avoid belts jabbing your stomach, and front pleats always makes you look a bit more put together. 

Not all patterns are made the same, I find the chicest patterns to be ones that showcase the craftsmanship of textile design, not printed patterns but ones created by weaves. 

Madras - my personal fav for adding some colour to your outfit. Madras the former name of the Indian city Chennai, this fabric is a lightweight cotton, weaved in colourful plaid checks made with vegetable dyes that bled into each other after washing, and would sun bleach in the harsh Indian sun. While underappreciated at current, Madras was featured in Ralph Lauren’s SS27 collection, so I can sense a reassurance on the horizon.

Stripes - A classic since medieval times, stripes will never go out of style. The Breton stripe shirt has become a summer essential for many years, and I think striped shorts add a chic Riviera element to any simple outfit. I prefer vertical stripes, not too wide or narrow, and while red and navy are the classics any colour striped with white works. 

Patchwork - This style is more vintage than stoner. Whether the patchwork is a mix of fabrics, painted designs or checkerboard, you can find a pair to match any personality. Brands like Bode are the inspiration here, but if you want something more affordable why not test your diy skills?

The best thing is how easy it is to style these, find a linen shirt in any one of the many coloured threads and you’ll look chic, the print has done all the work for you.

Morningwear ‘preferred’ weddings

Once the basic dress of a British wedding, the classic morningwear continues to be a popular choice for those with more traditional tastes. When the invite says Morningwear, that’s easy, you can buy or rent a full morningwear look from the likes of Moss. A tailcoat, striped trousers, a contrasting waistcoat and a crisp shirt is what you wear, but what if the invite has the vague ‘prefered’? While this is likely due to the host not wanting to put the cost of hiring or buying a suit you are likely to only wear once onto their guests, the preferred creates anxiety of whether they will be too underdressed if they wear their normal go to wedding suit. 

How I would decide what to wear is to identify what my relationship to the happy couple is. Are they siblings, bestfriends, etc, and when I look back on the pictures in years to come, will I regret that I didn’t spend a little extra to match the rest of the party, then wear a morning suit.

If this isn’t an issue, you’re the plus one or likely to be placed on a table further from the main party, then this is what I would suggest.

Dark colours - don’t overthink, keep safe with a navy, black or charcoal suit. The traditional morning suit is a mix of the colours, so at least this way you’ll tone in with those dressed in tails. 

Two piece or not two piece - that's really up to you, a three piece suit is more formal and traditional, so if you have a suit with a matching waistcoat then this is the better option, but don’t try and dupe the tails look with a contrasting waistcoat, it will just look too jarring, use your tie to add the pop of personality. 

Garden weddings

This is one of my favourite dress codes, as it allows your creativity to flourish. The main rule here is to be comfortable but stylish. 

While other venues mean strict codes, the mere fact you are in someone's garden means theres a more casual element that you don’t find at other weddings, this doesn’t mean you should ditch the blazer though. 

Linen suit - a day of celebrations outdoors, hopefully with the sun shining down, results in the need for something light and breathable. Linen suits are perfect as the air flows through the fabric, meaning you can enjoy the function without feeling too hot. Neutral is a classic linen suit colour choice, but you can also match the tones of the garden with some colour linen options, that allow you to stand out as the best dressed. 

Tied or untied - personally I like a tie even at a garden wedding, keep on at the start and during the ceremonies, but as the day continues, it's perfectly acceptable to allow your neck to breathe, as long as you only unbutton the top 1 or 2 buttons of your shirt, no one wants to see any more of your chest hairs than that. If you are planning to ditch your tie then a contrasting pocket square is important to add that extra attention to detail.

Anti linen - Now if you aren’t someone who can embrace the inevitable creased look of linen at an event, but still want to look smart without overheating in the sunshine, then cotton or tropical wool is your best bet. Designed for British officers in India, tropical wool is crease-resistant, and a breathable alternative to traditional wool. 

Mix it up- this invite is one of few where not wearing a matching suit is not passe. A statement jacket with neutral shirt and trousers is playful and smart. 

Destination weddings

A European wedding has become a popular trend the last few years, having your loved ones schlep across the continent to boost your odds of avoiding rain on the big day. However this creates a bit of pressure on appropriate wedding guest outfits. 

A destination wedding is spread across a few days, you have to make the most of the flights I suppose, so versatility is key with your packing. If you know the weather is on your side, then choose a linen suit as your base, whether you go neutral, dark or colourful, this is your look for the main event. For pre and post events, pack a contrasting pair of pleated linen trousers; if you have a navy suit go for white trousers, a neutral suit choose a dark trousers etc.This allows you to break up the pieces, add two different colour linen shirts to the mix, and you already have 6 looks ready. Don’t forget those small accessories which take little bag space but can change a look completely; sunglasses, hat, pocket square, ties, and one pair of casual and a pair of formal shoes. All this will ensure you look smart and cohesive, without being repetitive, also means you won't have to pay for extra luggage. 

Townhall weddings

A celebrity approved trend right now is going to the local town hall, although Marylebone and Chelsea are particular favourites. This venue is seen a chic alternative, where the bride can be more fashion forward and ditch the traditional gowns, and so therefore can the guests.

Formal - any suit will work here, but as a city wedding a darker colour looks best, a personal favourite is a double breasted suit, a streamline black suit with black tie or a monochromatic theme. 

Casual - often if the townhall precedes a more lavish do at a later date, then guests will dress more casually; a blazer, shirt and smart chino can look effortless, or wear a classic suit but with an open shirt and ditching the tie. 

While I have seen some adopt the American tuxedo look, particularly for the groom and his groomsmen, as a guest I would avoid unless specifically instructed to on the invite. 

Church weddings

There is nothing more traditional than the sound of church bells, and for many this is still a dream wedding whether you regularly attend or not. For guests this is one of the easiest dress codes, unless specifically told a colour theme on the invite or morningwear ‘preferred’, then just wear your best suit in classic colours like blue, navy, greys, brown or greens, black is a little harsh for the setting but not a die hard rule. Pair this with a crisp white shirt, light blue or pink are also acceptable choices, and a tie. Use the finishing touches such as pocket squares or colourful socks to add character without being too intense for such a traditional setting. 

Cultural or Religious weddings

In our diverse society there is a very high chance you’ll be invited to a wedding of friends whose traditions are based on their own religious or cultural background, which comes with a dress code of something you don’t just have in the back of the wardrobe.

If they specifically ask you to dress according to their own traditions then I would suggest reaching out to the couple directly for some advice; showing both respect and avoiding any embarrassing mistakes, it's likely you're not the only one unsure of what to wear. 

If the dress code is just formal, you don’t feel comfortable in the dress or don’t have access to relevant stores, then go for a classic suit with shirt and tie, as you would at any other wedding, at the end of the day the bride and groom are just happy you’re there. 

If you are told it's going to be a colourful wedding, then there are plenty of statement suits you can buy, or if the idea of a bright suit is out of your comfort zone, then add a pop of colour in your tie, pocket square or socks. 

Alternative weddings

People want their wedding to reflect their lives and aesthetic. Whether it’s in a fairytale forest, under a disco ball, or at the beach, the main thing is to look in keeping without going gimmicky. 

For something outdoorsy think of the tones you find in nature, natural fibres like wool, linen or cotton are great in neutral tones or browns and greens. 

A party or disco theme is chic and playful, you know you’ll have to dance in it later, so go for a black suit, white shirts and black tie, add some sunglasses to finish the look.

If the bride wants to feel the sand in her toes down the aisle, then as a guest go for light flowy linen, unless specifically told otherwise go blazer free, you wouldn’t normally wear a suit at the beach would you. 

It’s just a wedding

Now if the invite doesn’t have any specific theme, or it's just a classic wedding held in a country club, a hotel or some kind of event space, then this is where you keep it simple. Navy, charcoal, or a neutral colour, tweed textures, plain or classic checks, wear a white shirt and a tasteful tie and pocket square, formal shoes and you can’t go wrong. Likely you already have it all in your wardrobe ready to go! 

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Here are the best colour combinations to wear with brown to make sure you look stylish this summer.

Shop the collection

Chocolate, Yellow and Light Blue

1. Shop - Inis Meain Yellow Polo Shirt

2. Shop - MRP Brown Open Knit Polo Shirt

3. Shop - MRP Blue Polo Shirt

4. Shop - Portuguese Flannel Yellow Oxford Shirt

5. Shop - Kartik Research Brown Linen Trousers

6. Shop - Acne Studios Blue Checked Shorts

7. Shop - NN07 Brown Linen Shorts

8. Shop - Oliver Spencer Brown Checked Shorts

Chocolate, Pink and Olive

1. Shop - Corridor Pink Linen Shirt

2. Shop - NN07 Olive Linen Shirt

3. Shop - Corridor Pink Striped Polo Shirt

4. Shop - Beams Plus Striped T-shirt

5. Shop - Frimzwork Brown Trousers

6. Shop - Orlebar Brown Patterned Swimshorts

7. Shop - 3Sixteen Brown Trousers

8. Shop - MRP Brown Linen Shorts

Rust tones

1. Shop - NN07 Stripe Cuban Knitted Shirt

2. Shop - Massimo Alba Cotton Oxford Shirt

3. Shop - Oliver Spencer Brown Polo Shirt

4. Shop - Auralee Stripe T-shirt

5. Shop - NN07 Brown Pleated Linen Trouser

6. Shop - Frescobol Carioca Patterned Swimshorts

7. Shop - NN07 Cream Pleated Linen Trouser

8. Shop - NN07 Linen Shorts

Chestnut, Blue & Navy

1. Shop - Kardo Cotton Blue Shirt

2. Shop - Portuguese Flannel Navy Linen Shirt

3. Shop - Frescobol Carioca Printed Shirt

4. Shop - Piacenza Knitted Polo Shirt

5. Shop - MRP Drawstring Cotton & Linen Shorts

6. Shop - Frizmworks Cream Cotton Trousers

7. Shop - Orlebar Brown Navy Linen Shorts

8. Shop - Slowear Pleated Wool Linen Trousers

Monotones

1. Shop - Oliver Spencer Striped Cotton Polo Shirt

2. Shop - MRP Black Linen Shirt

3. Shop - MFPEN Brown Cotton Shirt

4. Shop - NN07 Striped Cotton Long-sleeve Polo Shirt

5. Shop - MRP Black Cotton & Linen Bermuda Shorts

6. Shop - Human Made White Wide Leg Cotton Chinos

7. Shop - MRP Brown Dotted Swimshorts

8. Shop - Oliver Spencer Brown Pleated Linen Trousers

Shop the collection

Share The Considered Man

Aubin

Despite only being just old enough to buy itself a beer, at 18 years old the brand feels like a heritage brand in the making. From the man behind Jack Wills, Aubin was relaunched just 5 years ago, with modern designs inspired by the past.

Aubin’s SS26 is a fruity sorbet palette cleanser; soft pinks, butter yellow and sun faded blues, embracing the colours of a British seaside summer. I particularly love their use of Madras checks in their shorts and shirts. They have a brilliant array of striped cotton oxford shirts, paired with their selvedge cotton chinos or colourful shorts.

Visit their Carnaby store or at aubinandwills.com

1. Shop - Yellow Oxford Shirt

2. Shop - Navy Canvas Shoe

3. Shop - Blue Crew Neck Jumper

4. Shop - Blue Overshirt

5. Shop - Selvedge Chinos

6. Shop - Madras Checked Shorts

Percival

Established 2010, in East London, Percival has made a name for itself as a destination for men who want timeless classics. Taking traditional menswear pieces and putting their twist on the designs keeps your wardrobe fresh without feeling tired.

For SS26, Percival takes you to the Mediterranean, with their stone washed tones, vintage knitted polos and pleated shorts. The colour story is clean; Breton stripes, navy and white, with each piece interchangeable with each other. Wear the knitted polo with shorts on the weekend, then under a suit for work, the pieces are the perfect example of smart casual.

Visit their Soho, Spitalfields or Covent Garden stores or at percivalclo.com

1. Shop - Baseball Cap

2. Shop - Linen Suit

3. Shop - Navy Knitted Polo

4. Shop - White Stripe Knitted Polo

5. Shop - Black Pleated Trousers

6. Shop - White Pleated Shorts

Universal Works

Workwear for the modern man, founded in 2009 at the kitchen table, it continues its approach of independent designs that just work. Focusing on heritage pieces for the modern world, the designs are never over designed, instead focusing on the context of the pieces and the craftsmanship. Using small scale productions, with careful consideration regarding factories, and the creatives they collaborate with.

Inspired by travels and exhibitions the summer collection doesn’t forget the reality that most days of summer are spent at work. Base colours of navy and neutral allow the statement embroidered shirts, pops of yellow and contrasting prints to shine.

Visit their Soho or King Cross stores or at universalworks.com

1. Shop - White Trousers

2. Shop - Navy Plaid Jacket

3. Shop - Embroidered Blue Shirt

4. Shop - Brown Check Polo

5. Shop - Neutral Canvas Shoes

6. Shop - Navy Trousers

Oliver Spencer

With around 40% of collections made in England, for Oliver Spencer provenance and quality are key pillars to his designs. Founded in 2002, the brand’s philosophy of ‘Quality needn’t mean formality; casual needn’t mean careless’ hasn’t been lost. A man in Oliver Spencer is never over or under dressed, just well dressed.

The summer collection reflects the sun-bleached city in soft dusty brick copper and neutral shades, with blues and teals that effortlessly takes you from city to vacation. Formal looks with casual comfort, drawstring waist trousers, and breezy short sleeved shirts, taking you from the board room to beer garden.

Visit their Soho, Marylebone, Bloomsbury or Shoreditch stores or at oliverspencer.co.uk

1. Shop - Pink Knitted Shirt

2. Shop - Cotton & Linen Blazer

3. Shop - Short Sleeve Shirt

4. Shop - Striped T-Shirt

5. Shop - Brown Pleated Trousers

6. Shop - Indigo Pleated Shorts

Shop my collection of British Brands

Comfort remains the focus, a modern cut with softer shoulders, less structure with trousers and jackets that allow ample movement. This era of tailoring needs to feel comfortable, lived in rather than forced upon like the office boys in their navy performance suits. Invest in Cotton and Linen suits, where the creases and wrinkles hold stories of the summer adventures, while Corduroy suits are ideal for cool spring days, or leading into autumn.

The styling rule is, have fun! And here’s how:

Shop full collection here

Go bold or go home

Patterns, textures and colour are just as important as the cut of the suit. A vintage pinstripe harks back to power dressing, as is for the man who wants something slick. A texture in cord or tweed is comfortable, refined and casual. While a daring colour is for the man who wants to be noticed.

1. Shop - MRP Purple Suit Jacket

2. Shop - Tom Ford Striped Tie

3. Shop - J Mueser Striped Shirt

4. Shop - MRP Purple Suit Trouser

1. Shop - Hartford Navy Blazer

2. Shop - Drakes Patterned Tie

3. Shop - Rag & Bone Blue Striped Shirt

4. Shop - Rubinacci Pleated Trousers

It’s in the jeans

The easiest way to dress down the suit is something you’re probably already wearing, swap the suit trousers for jeans. A lighter wash adds a nice contrast to navy blazers, keep the top half formal with a shirt and tie, add loafers with a pop of a colourful sock. Want to wear a full suit, then a denim shirt softens the look, keeping the shirt unbuttoned for an off duty style, paired with other western accessories.

1. Shop - MRP Navy Italian Wool Blazer

2. Shop - Ami White Button Down Shirt

3. Shop - Grenson Horsebit Loafer

4. Shop - Agolde 90s Tapered Jeans

1. Shop - MRP Navy Pinstripe Wool Suit Jacket

2. Shop - MRP Denim Shirt

3. Shop - Nudie Jeans Western Belt

4. Shop - MRP Navy Pinstripe Wool Suit Trouser

Sportsmanship

Can’t decide between formal or casual, why not do both? Wear the full suit, layered with a cotton oxford shirt, rugby jersey or knitted polo, while you’re at it, throw on a baseball cap for that extra transatlantic sportsman touch. Corduroy or cotton suits are casual enough to pull off a pair of colourful sneakers.

1. Shop - Paul Smith Cord Suit Jacket

2. Shop - Cherry Los Angeles Baseball Cap

3. Shop - Adidas Spezial Blue Sneakers

4. Shop - Paul Smith Cord Suit Trousers

1. Shop - Drakes Cotton Blazer

2. Shop - Drakes Baseball Cap

3. Shop - New Balance 991v2 Orange Sneakers

4. Shop - Polo Ralph Lauren Blue Button Down Shirt

Lighten up

A linen suit is a must have for summer, pair with a linen shirt, unbuttoned or with a neckerchief for your summer events or everyday looks. Go for a neutral suit if you want to get the most cost-per-wear, or embrace the summer sun and go for something colourful.

1. Shop - Frescobol Carioca Linen Suit Jacket

2. Shop - Anderson & Sheppard Pink Linen Shirt

3. Shop - Hartford Cotton Neckerchief Scarf

4. Shop - Frescobol Carioca Linen Suit Trousers

1. Shop - NN07 Neutral Linen Suit Jackets

2. Shop - J.Mueser Striped Linen Shirt

3. Shop - Garrett Leight California Optical Sunglasses

4. Shop - NN07 Neutral Linen Suit Trousers

Legs out for the boys

Just because the sun is out doesn’t mean the blazer is redundant. Show off the calves with a pair of pleated cotton or linen shorts, and sports shorts add a pop of colour. If you want to be daring, why not forget the trousers all together, and just wear your cotton boxers.

1. Shop - MRP Grey Hopsack Blazer

2. Shop - Rubinacci Tie

3. Shop - Saint Laurent Loafers

4. Shop - Dries Van Noten Striped Shorts

1. Shop - Polo Ralph Lauren Navy Double Breasted Blazer

2. Shop - Falke Red Socks

3. Shop - Morjas Burgundy Penny Loafers

4. Shop - Acne Studios Grey Sport Shorts

Shop full collection here

Shop The Whole Collection Here

The Oxford Button Down Shirt

The essential in everyman’s wardrobe, the Oxford shirt acts as a base for any outfit. Dress it up with a suit and tie, or leave it unbutton for that handsome dishevelled look.

1. Shop - MRP Blue Stripe Shirt

2. Shop - Ralph Lauren Pink Shirt

3. Shop - Portuguese Flannel White Shirt

4. Shop - Anderson & Sheppard Yellow Shirt

The Pleated Trouser

Once a key 1920s piece, the pleated trouser had a revival in the 80’s, with a baggier silhouette. We are seeing a second revival in the 2020s, less baggy but perfectly pleated. My favourites are ones with waist adjusters for a clean line, belt free, look.

1. Shop - Rubinacci Brown Trousers

2. Shop - MFPEN Grey Trousers

3. Shop - MRP Grey Trousers

4. Shop - Officine Generale Khaki Trousers

The Accessories

While I won’t recommend wearing a large rosette, you can’t go wrong with a classic striped tie. If you don’t already own a timeless heirloom watch, or a family crest signet ring, then these are my favourites to invest in to add a bit of personality to your simple look.

1. Shop - MFPEN Striped Tie

2. Shop - Baume & Mercier Watch

3. Shop - Jacquie Aiche Onyx Signet Ring

4. Shop - Drakes Leather Belt

The Suit

Whether wearing the full suit, or just the blazer as a separate with pleated trousers, a classic grey suit is the perfect neutral. For those summer garden soirees a linen is perfect, even to do the chicken dance in.

1. Shop - Grey Wool & Camel Suit

2. Shop - Grey Wool Suit

3. Shop - Double Breasted Cashmere Suit

4. Shop - Neutral Linen Suit

The Pastel Polo

You don’t have to actually play polo to wear a baby pink polo shirt, although it does help. The 80s was awash with pastels, inspired by Miami Vice, the muted colour palette represented the era full of fresh ideas, money and fashions, following an earthy dark 70s. Lightweight, cotton rich and colourful makes this a great addition to your summer outfits.

1. Shop - Ralph Lauren Pink Polo

2. Shop - Peter Millar Mint Polo

3. Shop - Orlebar Brown Blue Polo

4. Shop - Ralph Lauren Faded-Red Polo

The Chino

Now I am not going to tell you to rush out and buy a pair of jodhpurs to hangout on Clapham Common, but if you want that ‘just played a game of polo’ look, then chinos in a light neutral is the perfect alternative. 100% cotton, light and breathable make them a suitable summer staple, worn with a Polo, or Oxford shirt, they are easy to dress up or down.

1. Shop - MRP Light Beige Chino

2. Shop - Ralph Lauren Camel Chino

3. Shop - MRP White Chino

4. Shop - Sunspel Beige Chino

Shop The Whole Collection Here

Now, if you still can’t decide what to wear, you could always steal his tennis look…

I was at the pub with some friends, and the inevitable topic of politics came up. With people heading to the polls today, the divisive rhetoric has never been stronger. As I sat surrounded by these mid 20s finance boys, all dressed in the standard quarter zip uniform, one spouted his dismay that the Green Party were polling to win his council, with a line straight off a Daily Mail front page. What I expected was the rest of the lads to follow in harmony; which I feel is understandable considering they are all dressed alike, work similar jobs and live in the same borough, but instead one quipped back with “I am going to vote green”.

While these two identical men sat opposite each other at the pub, their opinions couldn’t be further apart. Leaving me to ponder; can you really judge a book by its quarter zip?

Back in the 80s these boys, from middle class backgrounds, would have been seen as yuppies - upperly mobile, new money, able to buy anything and everything; and voting Thatcher to keep it that way. They competed with bigger houses, better cars, and stronger shoulder pads. The rise of the power suit, pinstriped to perfection, and individualism fuelled fast spending, a materialistic greed that ironically Thatcher herself found vulgar. However this new generation of aspiring affluent men, who dreamed to be like their forefathers, are stuck in houseshares in the neighbourhoods these yuppies gentrified in the 80’s, working till the late hours, but for what payoff? While some afford flats in “upcoming” areas, treat themselves to one quality watch and spend what money they have left on international travel, they now dress not to compete but to merely fit in.

While they seem to not agree who will fix this “broken system”, they do agree that the traditional 2 parties have had their chance, and that you can’t beat a Charles Tyrwhitt shirt.

Historically left wing parties, particularly green ones, appealed to men dressed in natural fibres from charity shops, a hemp tote bag, unkempt hair and a pair of Birkenstocks. And while they may still wear a pair of Birkenstocks, they now pair it with a Ralph Lauren Oxford shirt and a cashmere sweater swung over their shoulders. This outfit, that trends across social media under names such as old money or preppy, was once the uniform of conservatives who couldn’t think of anything worst than socialist values. On the contrary, I now hear right wingers decry how terrible fast fashion is using cheap labour from far flung lands, highlighting the importance of natural locally made products and buying second hand for that old school quality, admittedly referred to as vintage shopping rather than opposing capitalism.

While globalised fast fashion has made many look like clones of each other, the men inside hold values and beliefs which are less homogeneous. While you may still see the odd young person don politically charged messages in the form of buttons on clothing, the over 25 professional keeps their political opinions internal. I suppose there’s more risk to their livelihood from colleagues with equally strong but conflicting views. So dressing in a classic simple style allows one to conceal any unsavoury opinions that could scupper that carrot promotion. There’s a unity in uniformity when you dress like those around you, you have the feeling of belonging, even if you feel that the system isn’t working in your favour.

As hybrid working becomes the thing of the Covid era, business suits and dressing like the collectives’ icon of Patrick Bateman is on the rise. The mantra “dress for the job you want” has never been more applicable. Want to be taken seriously? Then dress as your boss. But the difference; whereas in the past people actually believed that could be true, now they don’t. Now he tests the durability claims of his navy performance suit; simultaneously increasing shareholder value, while his internal monologue calculates the increased cost of the extra days commute on his wallet, balanced by the cost saving of meal prepping his lunch for the week.

So as the poll clerk hands me my voting paper, I wonder if she is also taking guesses at what party I’m going to put my x next to? Is it obvious? Inside I am undecided on who to vote for, and perhaps my outfit of a casual jeans paired with formal loafers, actually portrays that perfectly.

‘What would I write about’ ‘what’s my perspective’ ‘will people even read’ these thoughts running through my head on a loop, and today I decided to find out. Will I end up the male British version of Carrie Bradshaw, or will it be more like my messages left read on Hinge?

I suppose I should start by answering these questions;

What will I write about? I have a degree in Fashion Communications, and have spent the last few years working at one of the biggest luxury fashion websites and recently moved to a heritage men’s suiting brand, so I guess men’s fashion is a good start.

What’s my perspective? I live in the greatest city on earth, surrounded by the best examples of history, art and culture, traditional tailoring but the edge of a modern and multicultural city, which inspires my personal style and world outlook. I am at my core a London boy.

And finally, will people even read? I guess that’s the only one I can’t answer, but let’s find out together….