Santa Baby: Buttons and Shawls

Today has been another chilly day, but an informal one. And what better way to enjoy the comforts of winter warmth than with a good ol' knitted cardigan?

The one in the picture above is of a style I've had my eye on for quite some time now. Executed with buttons and a shawl-collar, this warm cardigan is both classy and comfortable.

The buttons allow for a wide variety of fastenings. Ranging from being buttoned up all the way (leave the lowest button undone, for easier movement and a more elegant drape), to having as deep an opening as one wants. Leaving it open all the way is of course an option too. As an added bonus, the buttons don't create the same awkward bellowing as a zip tends to do, and provide the opportunity of adding some additional colour to the item.

The shawl-collar looks more refined than a simple collarless neck, and when popped up, helps keep the neck warm. Executed in a heavier knit, this cardigan looks well in place over long-sleeves, T-shirts and Polo's, but equally good when paired with a (dress-)shirt of some sorts. A tie adds a great bit of elegance, and can be kept neatly in place by buttoning the cardigan. Choose a fuller, warmer hue, regardless of wearing silk or wool. Alternatively, add a bow-tie for some playful class.

Wearable as an outer layer in fall or spring, and adding that extra bit of warmth in winter, a heavy knit cardigan with buttons and a shawl-collar is bound to be a welcome item in ones wardrobe. Santa, pay heed.

Santa Baby

Over the last few weeks and especially days, I've heard (and been involved in) more and more conversations concerning the Winter Season, unprepared/outdated wardrobes, and holiday gift-shopping.

As such, I have decided to combine the subjects into a series of posts directed at good old Santa Claus. Included will be both items from my personal wish-list and (gift-)advise for anyone interested. Ranging from essentials to the slightly more exotic, I hope to spark some inspiration for all you holiday shoppers out there.  And of course deliver my own contribution to boasting the economy. Sort of.

Winter's come early

Green Tweed, paired with Silk, via Permanent Style

Winter's come to town early this year, and as I sit yet with only the light of a desk lamp and two candles, the white roofs outside remind me that it's time to reorganise the wardrobe. As with food, music and moods, closets also change with the seasons.

With the temperature dropping, naturally comes the need for warmer clothing. Fabrics get thicker, and layers more plentiful. Winter's the time for creativity with accessories, especially for men, who are usually rather restricted in this field. Silks make up for the roughness of flannel and tweed. Neckerchiefs and Ascots add a subtle bit of classiness and warmth to outfits not sporting a neck-tie, and can even go far in adding some class to an otherwise very urban or casual outfit. The occasional cardigan, waistcoat, even hoodie or whatnot, gives opportunity for an added pop of colour.

On the outer layers, cashmere, silk and merino-wool keep the neck and chest warm in forms of scarves, draped in many styles and ways. They close the gaps on tweed jackets and warm overcoats. Sometimes leather jackets if the temperatures don't drop too low.

Layering for winter, via Loro Piana

With winter also come the vast differences between inside and outside temperatures, making layering a must. Of course the outer layer comes off when entering an indoor premises, but even then having options is usually more than welcome (especially considering the differences between indoors-environments). Now is the time for jerseys, cardigans, matching or odd waistcoats, multiple layers of shirtings, and more. Creativity is the key-word, as the options are almost limitless, as long as one keeps in might the setting one might be in. For the most formal occasions, keep in mind not all layers need to be visible of course.

As winter rears its frosty head, fabrics, habits and colours in wardrobes change. Like it or not, the seasons are a fact, and I'd rather work with what I can't fight. Tomorrow I'll be looking to purchase a good new pair of shoes for the season.