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Menswear

THE NEW FASHION RULES

How to be in style right now? Winter favours the bold: that is, the boldly contemporary.

We may no longer be knee-deep in terry cloth and sweatpants, but the new modern mix centres on the smart-casual hybrid. Specifically: staple pieces crafted from slinky fabrics, relaxed fits and cosy woollens are prescribed shopping.

The new rule? Don’t shirk formalwear. Just give it a 2021 twist. You may not be ready for full suiting yet but that doesn’t mean you can’t look sharp. See Woolrich, where the formal jacket has been casualised; celebrating the shrug-on shirt jacket and the trusty zip-up.

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Mix casual classics with formal favourites to achieve this cool and contemporary look. Model wears Woolrich Deepsix Packable Padded Jacket, €320.

Comfort is king when getting dressed. Make laid-back your motto and if you’re going to do tailoring, ensure it’s cut softly for ultimate relaxation. If you are in the mood for some coordination, do as Tiger of Sweden does and top-and-tail in shades of ebony, tobacco or camel.

At APC there was a celebration of the humble sweater — the most un-boring of basics. Exaggerated checks, Fair Isle patterns and classic plaid are firm favourites here. A sweater vest is a novel way to pledge your allegiance to grunge dressing. Just make sure your shirt hangs low beneath.

A knitted polo shirt is compulsory if you’re channelling the season’s 70s vibe. Size up if you’re digging autumn’s roomy silhouette.

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Mix plaid with plaid in the same tonal palette for a quick and easy styling trick. Model wears A.P.C. Ian Check Overshirt, €500.

Trousers come in a mix of smart-casual shapes this season, but what’s clear is fashion's favouring the straight leg. As seen at Alexander McQueen (who showed it in mid-rise denim), Dolce & Gabbana (where tailored trousers crossed with joggers) and, most notably, at Gucci (we love the GG contrast-stripe sweatpants).

SHOP WINTER WARMERS:

Fashion has changed since lockdown. Now, more than ever, we are keenly aware that what we buy has an impact on the planet. The smartest of dressers knows a good investment purchase must be as sustainable as it is style enhancing.

Winter’s must-buys combine a considered ethos with a get-dressed appeal. An Emory hooded parka coat from Canada Goose is not only a forever piece, it’s made using responsibly sourced down — ensuring animal welfare best practice is upheld throughout the supply chain.

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The longline coat is the most elegant of this season’s outerwear, a totally timeless style that you’ll wear for seasons to come. Model wears Boglioli Longline Herringbone Coat, €1,270.

It's sustainability for the win at Acne, where button-down shirts, denim jackets and logo tees uphold the standards of the Fair Wear Foundation; a non-profit that seeks to improve conditions for workers in the fashion industry and puts a spotlight on supply chain transparency. Meanwhile, at Boglioli traditional craftsmanship is always in vogue. A simple houndstooth, Prince of Wales or herringbone check is essential for your capsule wardrobe.

When it comes to outerwear, go big or go home. Make a beeline for Paul Smith, who makes a case for shearling and puffa coats, worker jackets and go-anywhere pea coats. Our thoughts? A roll-neck layered underneath is always a good idea. Double up by layering a light raincoat on top if you’re feeling adventurous (and seeking warmth). We love a Mackintosh coat for its attention to detail and utility finishes: cosy and contemporary.

SHOP MUST-HAVE WARDROBE UPGRADES:

MORE TO READ

Perhaps the most important rule of all come winter time: Layer Up. Read all about what Canada Goose this season and beyond. Plus, find the perfect cover up for an Irish winter.