5 Ways To Boost Your AW14 Style

 

Oscar Wilde once said fashion is a form of ugliness so intolerable that we have to alter it every six months. And it’s starting to look like that time has come once again, with autumn/winter fast approaching.
But frustration at fashion cycles aside, this autumn/winter is definitely one to get excited about. For AW14, menswear is really placing an emphasis on how you wear your clothes and the interesting ways you can mix items together, encouraging you to experiment with your existing wardrobe.
Classic with a twist is what springs to mind. It’s a concept that has long resonated with the typical FashionBeans reader: take an item that, due to its history, carries certain connotations and then turn it on its head. Our style boosts below aim to do just that.

5 Easy Ways To Boost Your AW14 Style

Obviously, the following advice assumes that you already own an assortment of timeless basics, such as Oxford shirts, tees, chinos, jackets and shoes – if you don’t, we’d suggest checking out our two-part guide on the thirty key pieces you need to reinvent your wardrobe.
Already built a classic, simple and versatile capsule wardrobe? Here are some easy ways you can individualise your look this autumn/winter…

1. Think Outside The Layering Box

When it comes to creating outfits during the colder months, textures, layering and fabrics play a huge part, which gives you more freedom to experiment with interesting combinations of pieces.
However, it’s important you learn how to layer correctly before you begin to start bending and breaking the rules. Once you’ve mastered the basics, here are a few key pieces you can use in unconventional ways in order to give your ensemble a unique spin:

• Denim Jacket: Everyone’s favourite spring/summer jacket can also be utilised during the colder months. Opt for a slim, fitted version and you will be able to layer it under your winter coat or even a blazer, giving you an extra layer of protection from the elements and a nice contrast of texture within your outfit.
• Shawl Neck Cardigan: Chunky, textured versions work extremely well as make-shift jackets during autumn, especially when layered over thick denim/Oxford shirts, while fine gauge styles can be thrown under a sports coat or used as a middle layer with your suit to create a contemporary ‘three-piece’.
• Roll Neck: A roll neck makes a superb alternative to your standard shirt and tie combination on dress-down Friday or in offices with business-casual dress codes – its extended neckline playing with the concept of silhouette when layered underneath your suit jacket. Alternatively, why not consider throwing your chunky shawl neck cardigan over the top of a fine gauge roll neck for a look full of depth and texture?
• Gilet: A lightly padded gilet is ideal for autumn/winter and can be utilised as a middle or top layer, depending on the effect you want to achieve. For example, they look great worn over the top of a cord shirt but can also be used to add a pop of colour when slotted in-between your dress shirt and suit jacket for the morning commute.

Experiment and see what works for you.

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