Bonjour 2018. It’s that time again – no, we’re not asking you to declare your “New Year, New You” resolutions. The only resolutions we’ll keep you to are of the style variety. And it’s time for a wardrobe refresh.
Where are we turning for style inspiration? France, naturellement. This season we’re taking our style cues from the effortless, eternal and insouciant cool of French dressing in the 1960’s. There’s no better time for style inspiration than an era synonymous with rebellion, revolution and spirited youth culture of Paris.
Channel Alain Dulon, icon of 1960’s French cinema and our pin-up for new-season cool, and transport your look to Paris with a few essential wardrobe updates. Think practical work wear silhouettes popularised by the French style during the era: navy jackets with plenty of pockets, loose-fitting lightweight shirts and military-inspired silhouettes. Wear with Parisian nonchalance throughout the season.
1. Deconstruct your denim
You’ve found the perfect pair of jeans, and now it’s time to have some fun with your denim. Add edge to your favourite fail-safe pieces with a patchwork denim jacket, where combat green mixes with hard-wearing denim to create a modern take on work wear.
2. The details
You’re not one for the standard suit and tie, and we can’t blame you. Swap chinos and a blazer for garment dyed cotton trousers and a co-ordinating jacket. Exposed white triple stitching brings the work wear grey to life, creating a crisp smart-casual alternative.
3. Put your palette into neutral
Dream of simplifying your every day styling? Take your cue from classic French work wear of the 1960’s and opt for a palette of rich blues, greys and combat green, building a palette of versatile hues that pair with ease – perfect for the deconstructed patchwork you’ll be experimenting with.
4. Show your stripes
If you live by the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” mantra, try dipping your toe with subtly updated classics. The timeless blue and white stripe is made modern with horizontal patchwork in different blue tones, bringing an understated take on mixed materials.
5. Your wardrobe icons
Day or night, you can always rely on classic shapes to bring your look together. A well-edited wardrobe needs a bomber jacket to complete every off-duty outfit. This season, opt for versatile combat green tones to continue that work wear influence. Mixing materials brings interest to this unassuming piece.
