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During winter, the fabrics men choose to wear have important parts to play in how you stay dry and warm. You want them to be able to wick away the rain and deflect wind on the top layer while underneath, keep you warm but not overheat.

Layering efficiently is crucial in winter. Building upon a strong, insulated foundation the additional layers must complement not smother the wearer. Coming together in a symphony of warmth to beat even the coldest of days.

The key to getting the layering spot-on is choosing the right fabrics. Too thick and it won't allow air to circulate, while too thin won't trap the right amount of heat.

This is where our handy guide to winter fabrics becomes essential reading. We will breakdown the most common materials featured throughout this seasons clothing and accessories. That way you will be better educated to make the right choices when building your cold-weather outfits.

Shearling

Now more than ever with the current utilitarian trend, the influences of military clothing are woven through menswear. Just like the examples of field jackets and bomber jackets came from the military, so did shearling. It was added to bomber jackets to keep pilots warm in the chilly skies.

Shearling is the skin of sheep with the wool left attached. The skin side is tanned and leathery while the other side remains fluffy and warm. Because there both sides are still adjoined the warming properties are elevated.

Like its origins, it is best applied with outerwear, but its warmth can do wonders for a nice pair of slippers.

Mohair

The luxurious Mohair wool comes from the Angora goat. Much softer than sheep's wool it is regarded as the 'diamond -fibre'. Its crease-resistant nature coupled with its added elasticity makes it a sought after fabric.

Mohair was previously very popular in the 1960s due to its implementation in the trend of two-tone suits by music stars of the day. Its popularity has wained of late as questions have been raised over the ethical farming methods used towards the goats.

But the reduced mass-market appeal has only led to it becoming a more niche fabric, now with a higher price point

On a similar scale of warmth as other wools like merino, it is its soft shaggy exterior that makes it distinctly desirable. Currently, in menswear, you are more likely to see it mixed with cotton, cashmere or another wool in your usual winter clothing pieces.

Cashmere

Although this might seem like a steep investment for an item only worn part of the year, it can be well worth it. Cashmere is expensive, but it is three times warmer than typical sheep's wool and is incredibly soft to touch. Meaning it can be worn without a t-shirt underneath.

To make sure you are getting your money's worth, use your fingers. If it is oily to touch, then it will likely have been mixed with another material.

Cashmere's super-soft fibres and matte finish make it an ideal layering piece. The textured look can offer a welcome point of difference to other items you might be wearing as part of your outfit. But, if the price of a cashmere jumper is a little out of your budget seek out accessories in the same material.

Merino Wool

Merino is the lightest of all sheep's wool. The eponymous breed of sheep has possibly the finest wool, making it ideal for use in clothing.

Merino's goat wool counterpart, cashmere has always been widely recognised as the softer and more luxurious of the two. But, years of innovative breeding of sheep has led to merino wool being produced that is finer than cashmere.

The positives for this fabric is that it's very good at regulating body temperature, making it a key layering piece during winter. Typically the gauge is light-medium which makes it easy to wear in jumper form on top of a shirt or t-shirt.

Lambswool

As you imagine, lambswool is wool quite literally from lambs and the first shearing of a sheep will always produce the finest and softest wool.

Unlike merino or cashmere that is wool from a particular animal breed, lambswool can be from any breed of sheep. So, there can often be inconsistencies in micron count (the gauge for softness) from brand to brand.

Despite the warming properties of lambswool, its softness means it doesn't have the strength and durability of merino. This shows in the looser drape it has when compared to merino or even cashmere.

But, when comparing lambswool to typical wool from older sheep (not the merino breed), lambswool will still provide warmth but won't itch like normal wool. Great if you have sensitive skin.

Tweed

Made from wool, tweed has no consistent outcome from production, meaning this tightly woven fabric can come in a range of weights and weaves.

Originating in Scotland in the 18th century, tweed was a thick fabric ideal for braving the harshest farming winters. It became more mainstream after it was adopted by aristocrats and to this day still has somewhat of a stuffy, posh association.

Harris Tweed is regarded as some of the best versions of tweed available. For it to be authentic Harris Tweed it has to be handwoven by islanders at their homes in the Outer Hebrides from pure virgin wool and dyed on the same island.

The different weaves used by varied manufacturers is what gives tweed contrasting patterns. Honing in on a check or stripe you like could even link back to the factory that makes that signature style.

Fleece

Fleece was invented as a cheaper option to wool back in the 1970s. Crafted from polyester, the fibres are brushed and woven into a light fabric. As with a lot of fashion from that period it has often been vilified despite its consistent presence in menswear ever since.

The black mark against fleeces style credentials was never to do with its functionality. It can retain heat but wick away any moisture unlike a lot of natural materials. Fleece's problems were that it was embraced by the rather unfashionable outdoor clan of hikers and walkers.

Over the years, hiking boots and related attire have slowly made it into mainstream menswear. For this reason, alongside a more tailored silhouette, it has meant that fleece is remaining as contemporary as ever.

Flannel

Flannel is a fabric accustomed to hard work, worn by those whose job is traditionally outdoors. It has fantastic insulating properties as well as being hard-wearing and robust in nature.

The fabric is made by brushing wool fibres with a fine metal brush to create a nap. Similar to how suede is created from leather. The result is a soft fabric whose raised fibres help to trap heat.

As men, we are most familiar with flannel being used as a plaid or checked shirt. But, we recommend introducing it into your smarter attire. A flannel suit can be a great addition and provide some much-needed warmth to a formal outfit.

Corduroy

Much maligned in the past, corduroy has had a menswear resurgence of late. It is made by using pile-cut cotton yarn that’s been woven and cut into cords, or wales. The wider the wales, the sturdier the material.

The production method makes it warmer and more durable than traditional cotton whilst retaining the softness we expect from the fabric.

A thicker fabric with a good helping of texture it can rejuvenate tailoring with its distinctive look and feel.

Gabardine

Invented by Burberry and synonymous with their world-famous trench coat, gabardine is a tough, twill-woven cloth. Any excess fabric after the tight weaving is singed off to leave a dense and durable waterproof fabric.

The Burberry application in their coats would have used wool, although most gabardine in menswear nowadays is made from cotton. But, it's functionality is still as useful as ever.

Gabardine's durability means it won't crease like normal cotton while its breathability will allow air to circulate, reducing overheating. Combine this with its waterproof properties and it makes for a favoured material for jackets and coats.

Waxed Cotton

Waxed cotton refers to cotton that has had paraffin or natural beeswax coating applied to the entire surface or the individual fibres. This waxed coating originated in the sailing world and has become a mainstream technique for waterproofing outerwear.

An early adopter of this method of waterproofing was J.Barbour & Sons, who at the time specialised in outdoor clothing for farmers and gamekeepers. To this day Barbour is still one of the foremost manufacturers of the waxed jacket.

Waxed cotton although ideal at braving a downpour is heavy and not very breathable. So, keep any layers worn underneath to a minimum and in a lighter fabric gauge.

Down

This one is not a fabric per se, more of a filling for winter garments. Down uses the softest feathers from a bird, those closest to the skin and has a fantastic ability to trap heat.

You will see down filling used in anything from outdoor jackets to bedding due to it being insulating but also light. Uniqlo, for example, expertly uses it within their range of Ultra Light Down products.

As it is light and warming, down can be a great choice for a transitional jacket. Offering all the warmth you need, but also adept at being tightly stored away when not needed, it is ideal for the morning commute.

The association of formal outfitters Turnbull & Asser with the James Bond franchise started way back in 1962 when they dressed Sean Connery for the Dr No film. The film's director, Terence Young was a customer and saw the brand as befitting of the worlds' best secret agent. So, Sean Connery was sent to their store on Jermyn Street to be dressed for the film.

Now, 58 years later Turnbull & Asser have once again been called to provide their expertise for the latest Daniel Craig outing as James Bond in No Time To Die.

To celebrate the union of the franchise and one of London's most iconic formal shirt and accessory makers, the Turnbull team are now giving you the chance to dress like Bond. The new James Bond collection that launched today, features five new exclusive pieces paying homage to those created for and worn by Bond on film.

The new items join a wider James Bond collection available from Turnbull & Asser with all pieces having been refined over time to bring them as close to the on-screen originals as possible. 

Shop the collection at turnbullandasser.co.uk

Summer is well and truly in the rearview mirror. Gone are the long balmy days when all men needed to do was throw on a T-shirt and shorts. Now, during colder days we can often go down a polar opposite direction, piling on clothes in a panic.

Men should be taking a more considered approach to their winter wardrobes. Wearing too many garments will create unrefined outfits that won't allow the individual pieces to look good or be able to do their job. Understanding how different items work well together and which can offer better insulation against the cold than others is key to artfully layering.

Fluidity throughout our wardrobe can both expand the lifetime of our clothes as well as offer more combinations to freshen up our daily outfit choices. In order to get the most out of our clothes, we need to invest in quality clothing expertly crafted from quality materials. This will lessen the reliance on having to buy a new wardrobe every season.

Layering is a menswear styling technique that involves adding individual pieces on top of themselves to build an outfit. Dependent on the level of cold this might be as simple as just a jumper, at other times it will need more items. Either way, there is a list of layering essentials that any man can rely on to see him through winter.

This is our pick of the best layering pieces that you should have in your wardrobe for the forthcoming cold season.

The Gilet

Put thoughts of toffs on country walks to the back of your mind. The gilet has moved forward from these dated and unhelpful connotations. It is now packed full of heat warming technology in a slim-lined aesthetic., thus making it great to be worn beneath other layers or as an alternative to heavier outerwear.

Fundamentally, to include a gilet into your outfit and make it look great, you need to pay close attention to the weight. A puffy down-filled option is not going to excel itself under a suit jacket. Whereby, slim ultra-light down versions, like those from Uniqlo don't have too much padding and will fit seamlessly underneath the jacket.

men wearing a padded gilet

If you are running some errands or experiencing different temperatures, say when commuting. The gilet can also remove the need to lug around a cumbersome coat. When replacing a coat altogether it is best to try a heavier weight gilet as there is no top layer to consequently bulk out.

As the gilet in most situations is being worn beneath a layer such as a coat or a suit jacket, it offers a chance to play with fabrics and colours. We can often retreat to dark muted tones during winter. Why not try a splash of burnt orange or burgundy to complement the rest of your ensemble.

The Blazer

Sounds a little obvious, especially to those that work in a formal environment. But, a blazer can be a crucial way to layer against the biting cold.

To hit all the style notes, we need to focus on the structure of the blazer. We aren't talking about your suit jacket here. We need a blazer cut slightly looser to give more movement and allow itself to be worn separately. This removal of some of the restrictiveness will let it to play nicely with other pieces in your wardrobe. For example, an argyle jumper, roll neck or the aforementioned gilet.

a blazer being worn beneath a coat

Now you have decided that the blazer can play a big part in your wardrobe for winter, don't always feel you have to stay to with the familiar greys and navy. Mixing the jacket and trousers opens the door to play further with colours and patterns. Pick out greens and browns in the blazer and flirt with patterns like houndstooth or even a full-on tweed version.

The Denim Jacket

A denim jacket is a great transitional piece that will take you from summer to winter. Its robust construction from a thick material means that it can protect you against the wind, while its slim silhouette allows it to fit snugly under clothing.

It is very easy to integrate a denim jacket into your outfits. On its own during warmer months, a denim jacket works great with a simple white tee underneath. For winter, take it one further and add an overcoat as the top layer and as straightforward as that you have the perfect mid-layer piece.

denim jacket as layering piece for men

To get the best results, opt for a light blue jacket and keep the top two buttons undone. The blue will work well with grey, navy or even a camel coloured coat and undoing buttons can remove the stiffness you can sometimes get from a denim jacket.

Yet again, this is another way to utilise the clothing in your wardrobe for longer periods of the year. That way you can be confident that if you spend a little more to get a better quality product then you will get a lot of wear from it.

The Cardigan

A key technique when it comes to expertly layering is playing with textures. The humble cardigan if chosen correctly can add much-needed warmth while allowing us to include a different texture like wool or cashmere into our outfit.

When it comes to cardigans we do favour a chunkier knit to give us some retro vibes, but we know the occasion does not always account for their slightly more casual format. As an alternative, try a lighter gauge cardigan in merino wool or cashmere.

cardigan layering men

Merino wool is fantastic at regulating body temperature due to the properties of the material. Without being too thick it lends itself well to being worn over anything from a simple t-shirt to a formal shirt without making you too hot.

To hit the right style notes, we recommend wearing with a shirt and tie combination under a suit jacket. You want to opt for a neutral colour block that won't clash with the shirt, jacket or tie. If in doubt, a nice grey, blue or brown palette will layer nicely with most options in your wardrobe.

The Overshirt

A thicker alternative to the shacket, an overshirt could be vital to your cold-weather wardrobe.

overshirt layering for men

Although at first appearance it may just look like a shirt. The heavy-duty construction and mixing of materials like wool and cotton make it more equipped at keeping you warm. On milder days, a wool overshirt can be worn on its own with a basic t-shirt or light cotton roll neck underneath. But, as the temperature drops, you can combine with a coat to beat the chill.

If you find an overshirt is proving to be a little robust, then you can always switch to the shacket as a thinner take to gain the same overall look.

The Hoodie

The hoodie has come along way since its sporting roots and it can now sit comfortably in a mix of menswear outfits. From streetwear to smart casual, the hoodies ability to move chameleon-like through different genres make it a wardrobe staple.

hoodie underneath a coat

One of our top layering pieces it works wonders as a mid-layer piece under a coat, leather jacket or even blazer. And to stop things from getting too hot, you just need nothing more than basic t-shirt below the hoodie.

Because it has become so mainstream, there is a wealth of hoodie choice out there for men. But, you can't go wrong with a simple, loopback cotton hoodie in grey. It will be versatile enough to be worn with a host of colours in top-layer options while adding cushion-soft comfort. 

The Roll Neck

We are big fans of the roll neck due to its ability to look incredibly smart and refined while serving its core functionality of keeping us warm.

Dependent on the style and fit of the roll neck, it's easy to introduce it to both formal and more casual attire. A roll neck in place of a shirt and tie can keep the nuances of formality but deliver a slightly more relaxed look, perfect for a date night. For this situation, we recommend a lighter gauge knit like merino wool or cashmere. 

roll neck being worn by men

If you aren't constrained by a work suit, then the roll neck options expand considerably. Why not try, for example, a chunky cable-knit roll neck. Worn with selvedge denim and hiking boots. It will make you battle-ready for any winter weather.

Whether you choose smart or formal, there is no doubting that the all-round nature of the roll neck makes it a layering winner. 

The Undershirt

Don't overlook the basics when it comes to layering. Sometimes you need to be building from a strong foundation and that can mean pieces that aren't always visible.

Using your normal go-to t-shirt as the bedrock of your outfit is not recommended. Basic types of t-shirts are made to be seen and can have subtleties like ribbed collars or loose-fitting sleeves. These elements when worn underneath other clothing can become uncomfortable or worse, show through.

To maximise the invisible nature you need to look for a specialised undershirt. Constructed to eliminate contrast between the t-shirt and shirt on top, the stretch-fit material and long-line length enable them to silently be tucked into trousers. In addition, you can colour match to your skin tone to increase their transparency when worn.

Because of the hidden nature of the item, you can wear an undershirt beneath any piece, be it knitwear, casual, or formal tops. The result is it's a great base for building a layered winter ensemble.

The Zip Neck Jumper

A nice alternative to the roll neck, a zip neck jumper superbly bridges the gap between smart and casual attire.

For those that partake in a dress-down Friday initiative, the zipped collar jumper can be a nice way to remove the suit jacket and add a casual touch. Once layered on top a formal shirt it can tie together a smart upper body with more laid-back items like denim jeans below. Then all you need to do is sling on a coat and you are ready to go.

To style it, we recommend a plain white or blue shirt underneath so the jumper can become more of a focal point and a way to introduce bolder colours or patterns. No matter whether you wear it in a plain colour or a more striking version, the zip neck jumper is a contemporary take on a classic look.

The Waistcoat

To embrace layering in a more formal than casual way, look to include a waistcoat. It's in the upper echelons of smart and will still serve the functionality of keeping you warm.

waistcoat worn in winter

Yes, of course, you can look at buying a three-piece matching suit that will include the waistcoat as standard. But, why not take this opportunity to include a visually distinctive item. A complementary waistcoat in a different colour or pattern to the suit will offer a nice juxtaposition of styles. Most suits during winter will be of a dark hue, so a lighter waistcoat can offset the deeper tone nicely.

With the future of shopping in stores uncertain at the moment. The British public is taking to buying their Christmas gifts earlier than ever. That means no predicted mad rush on Christmas Eve.

If you are someone that leaves it late, don't take this warning as a positive for hassle-free shopping in the days leading up to Christmas. Now is the time to start thinking about your friends and loved ones and what you will be gifting.

For those with a larger budget to spend we have brought together a mix of the best luxury gifts for men. So, no matter if they are a tech fanatic, whiskey lover or motorhead, there is something for everyone in our guide. Featuring Mr Porter, Aspinal of London, Montblanc and many more, it is a treasure trove of luxury presents waiting to be unwrapped.

Stow Leather Travel Case

Stow Leather Travel Case

Travelling anywhere might seem like a distant dream right now, but next year will be a different prospect. Ensure you travel in style by keeping all your tech accessories and important documents in one place.

This leather travel case has enough space for notebooks, pens, photo ID, a mobile phone and much more. Handmade by Stow, a British brand who are committed to honouring traditional techniques, it will upgrade any work or personal trip.

Montblanc Meisterstück Ballpoint Pen

Montblanc Meisterstück Ballpoint Pen

Introduced in 1924, the Meisterstück collection is synonymous with luxury writing. Meisterstück translates as 'Masterpiece' and is a fitting name for this elegant piece. The cap and barrel of the pen are crafted in black precious resin and the cap top features the iconic white Montblanc emblem.

Mr Porter Grooming Advent Calendar

Mr Porter Grooming Advent Calendar

Without a Lynx Africa in sight, the Mr Porter annual '12 days of Christmas' calendar is a smorgasbord of the best grooming products from the last year. The retail value of the luxury brands included is £447, which makes the £105 cost a snip. Hurry though, this is going to sell out quick.

Jo Malone London Cologne Collection

Jo Malone London Cologne Collection

Ideal for the winter season, this set of 5 different colognes evokes the smells and flavours we are familiar with at this time of year. Hints of orange bitters, redcurrant and ginger biscuit, come together to capture the festive spirit in a handful of warm scents.

Hakushu 12 Year Old Single Malt Whiskey

Hakushu 12 Year Old Single Malt Whiskey

The 25-year-old version of the Hakushu whiskey was voted the World's Best Single Malt in the 2020 world whiskey awards. That is hard to come by, so the next best option is the 12-year-old. Boasting a fresh and foresty flavour, it is a dynamite of a whiskey.

Piglet in Bed Pyjama Set

Piglet in Bed Pyjama Set

The discerning gent should always have a great pair of pyjamas. This pair from Piglet in Bed is made using 100% natural stonewashed flax. With added details like pearl buttons, the linen used is warm and cosy for the long dark nights of winter.

Add a personal touch with a monogramming service available.

Derek Rose Sheepskin Slippers

Derek Rose Sheepskin Slippers

For added comfort during those cold winter evenings, visit luxury loungewear specialists, Derek Rose.

Handmade in England, the Douglas slipper has a soft cow suede outer. Inside there is a super soft sheepskin lining with a cushioned footbed for maximum indulgence.

Set of 4 Landel Paintings

Set of 4 Landel Paintings

As we spend more time at home we naturally look to ways to elevate our humble surroundings. This beautiful set of 4 painting by artist Landel is hand-leafed with mesmerising motifs in subtle gold and would add a chic touch of modernity to your home.

Apple iPhone 12

Apple iPhone 12

The latest release from the worlds best-loved tech company has an abundance of new features. Boasting the fastest chip in a smartphone and an edge-to-edge OLED display it will deliver next-level performance.

Get your hands on the thinnest, lightest 5G phone available.

Cafe Leather Driving Gloves

Cafe Leather Driving Gloves

Keep hands warm during the cold season with a pair of handcrafted leather gloves. Cafe Leather combine generations of artisanal expertise from their Spanish home and these driving gloves are a refined addition to any man's wardrobe.

Ichizawa Hanpu Cotton Canvas Tote Bag

Ichizawa Hanpu Cotton Canvas Tote Bag

We featured this collection when it first dropped on Trunk Clothiers as it is the first wholesale partnership of Ichizawa Hanpu with a brand outside of Japan.

Ichizawa Hanpu are famed the world over as expert creators of hardwearing bags with a timeless style. This canvas tote is crafted from a heavy fabric that can withstand anything daily life will throw at it.

Omega Seamaster Watch

Omega Seamaster Watch

The Seamaster watch range from Omega was first introduced in 1948. Since then it has become one of the leading luxury watch styles to add to any man's collection.

This version features a rubber strap and a 42mm case diameter. As with all Seamasters, a diving functionality is paramount and this timepiece has a resistance of up to 300 metres.

Kingsman Crystal Decanter and Glass Set

As part of an exclusive partnership with Mr Porter's Kingsman range, Higgs & Crick have created this decanter, stopper and two glasses on a stunning base.

The wood and leather presentation box is tartan lined and can double as a display case. Overall, this would be a present fit for any secret agent.

Ettinger Bridle Wallet

Don't let a tatty old wallet bring down your entire outfit. Pay attention to the finer details and invest in the right kind of accessory.

A long, slim bridle wallet will fit perfectly in the inside breast pocket of your overcoat or suit jacket. It won't ruin the overall silhouette of what you are wearing and has enough storage for all your important cards and money.

Careful though, you'll end up paying for everything just so you can show it off.

Truefitt & Hill Wellington Collection

Some men, although loving the experience of a traditional shave, prefer not to use a double-edged razor at home. This selection from the world's oldest barbers, Truefitt & Hill is ideal.

Named after the British hero, Wellington it features a balanced Mach III razor and a handmade badger shaving brush. To tie them together there is a beautiful faux horn handle on both.

There has never been a better reason to be clean shaven.

Aspinal of London Tech Folio

Crafted from the finest calf leather, this large tech folio is great for protecting your laptop. Big enough to fit a 13-inch Macbook or iPad Pro 12.9 it is functional yet looks stylish.

To truly make a great gift, why not add some personalisation to it by monogramming the top centre with up to four initials.

The Irishman Book

Take a look behind the scenes of Netflix's most eagerly anticipated movie of all time. The Irishman directed by Martin Scorcese followed the life of a hitman for the Italian mob. Starring Al Pacino, Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci this book features on-set photography and studio portraits by Brigitte Lacombe, unit photography by Niko Tavernise and a text by author and film critic Tom Shone.

There is one single category of footwear every man should have in their wardrobe when we hit the end of the year and that is a winter boot.

It is inevitable that over the coming months that as the temperature drops we will also be faced with wind, rain and even potentially snow. Your box-fresh white trainers will not be up to the job. So, pack those pearly whites away until spring, its time for the big guns to come out to play.

The transition of winter boots into the mainstream menswear market has grown from our requirement for footwear that can withstand a variety of weather. Winter boots as we know them were initially designed for men that needed heavy-duty footwear that offered warmth, grip and robust ankle support in work environments. Now through lighter soles and advancements in construction, we can utilise that worker-style boot for our everyday enjoyment.

This list covers the very best winter boots currently on the market for men. From a host of different brands, they have one thing in common. That is their technical ability to handle anything that mother nature throws at them.

grenson bobby boots

Grenson Bobby

The historic British shoemakers have been creating the finest footwear since 1866. So, they know a thing or two about crafting shoes that will equip you against the harsh elements of winter.

A twist on the traditional hiker boot, Grenson have gone for a rugged suede upper. It is a distinctive boot that easily marries style and function to deliver a shoe that you won't want to take off. Luckily for you, it has padded ankle support and a lightweight wedge sole for comfort.

Timberland Stormbuck Chelsea Boot

Timberland Stormbuck Chelsea Boot

These rugged Stormbuck Chelsea boots from Timberland are engineered from premium burnished waterproof full-grain leather.

Timberland is a brand that has made their name in providing workers of the world with heavy-duty footwear that they can rely on. The Stormbuck boot is no different. The robust uppers are combined with additional anti-fatigue comfort technology to cushion the feet for all-day comfort.

Brunello Cucinelli Suede Desert Boots

Brunello Cucinelli Suede Desert Boots

Combining the hard-wearing durability of the finest Chelsea boots with the mastery of Italian manufacturing, are these offerings from Brunello Cucinelli.

Of course, they are made on Italian shores using the finest suede. They are also equipped with rubber lug soles to handle anything underfoot.

Make sure you used suede protector before use as there is nothing that can ruin suede quicker than an impromptu downpour.

Kingsman + George Cleverley Taron

Kingsman + George Cleverley Taron

Partnering with expert British shoemakers, Mr Porter has enlisted George Cleverley to create these exclusive lace-up boots for their Kingsman range.

Constructed from tactile roughout leather on top, the Taron boot is rugged but refined. This makes it expertly adept at being worn with both smart and casual attire.

Ludwig Boots Winter

Ludwig

Ludwig has been honing their shoemaking skills for over 100 years. The result is some of the finest boots on the market.

Made with premium materials in their own Vienna factory, these boots will age beautifully over time. The Hunting Ankle Boot is Goodyear welted on Tuscany lasts and have added comfort from a leather lining and black crepe sole.

M Moustache Pull-Up Brown Benjamin

M Moustache Pull-Up Brown Benjamin

A Parisian brand that creates its footwear in Portugal, this is a boot full of European flair.

M Moustache prides itself in reinterpreting trending styles. Taking elements that are on-trend but making footwear timeless so as to create more sustainable pieces that will last for years.

This elegant boot is made using traditional techniques to ensure they are sturdy and durable for the long winter days.

UGG Biltmore Workboot

UGG Biltmore Workboot

This is a boot that delivers on function and fashion with aplomb. From the comfort system insole to the rubber outsole it is packed full of UGG's footwear technology.

Made from full-grain leather it has a textile lining and padded microfiber collar to add comfort and stop any uncomfortable rubbing from the leather.

Russell & Bromley Wolcott

Russell & Bromley Wolcott

For those men that like a less restrictive boot, this ankle version of a traditional hiker boot is a great choice.

Crafted from calf-leather with a comfy, durable sole. It is a luxurious option in a style that can be easily dressed up or down dependent on the occasion.

Fitflop Odyn

Fitflop Odyn

Looks like a boot but feels like a trainer.

The guys at Fitflop have harnessed their comfort technology and injected it into the world of boots. Their sole tech delivers enhanced cushioning with a contoured footbed. The result is a classic brogue style boot that has sneaker-like comfort concealed inside it. Perfect for those long winter walks.

Monterry Shearling Stonehenge

Monterry Shearling Stonehenge

Monterry, the Paris brand, are purveyors of a slowed down menswear cycle of production. As a brand that only creates one shoe per season, they need to make it a beaut.

With shearling inside for extra-level warmth, the Stonehenge boot may sound British, but it has been handmade in Italy. This is a winter book that will easily take you from office to mountainside without falter.

Christian Louboutin Trapman

Christian Louboutin Trapman

With a military aesthetic, the Trapman boot is bang-on the current utilitarian trend in menswear.

On the sole is the familiar Louboutin flash of red while there is ribbed ankle support for additional comfort.

Price-wise, this isn't for the faint-hearted. The boot has been crafted in Italy using the finest calf leather.

Grenson Brady Boot

Grenson Brady

How could I resist including a piece of footwear that has my name attached? But, the coincidental naming aside, these are chunky hiker boots that are built to last.

Over time any wear or tear on the leather can be treated with oil to get the boot back to its original glory. Sturdy, but with a lightweight sole, the Brady boot will become your go-to footwear for many more winters to come.

A men's dress scarf can easily divide opinion. Some might see it is as overkill, while others will see it as a rakish accessory for the most stylish of men. We are definitely the latter.

The dress scarf is a great way to some distinctive personality to your daily outfit choice. A flash of colour or pattern can offer some light relief, especially in colder months when the tones on show become muted.

What material to choose?

The material of choice for your dress scarf will change subject to the occasion and ensemble but can be fairly fluid. When wearing with a tuxedo you should always be wearing a silk version. Other than that, there is movement and it can come down to personal preference.

I believe if you are wearing beneath a coat then it should be cotton or very light wool. Just the idea of wearing a coat implies it is colder, so silk would be too much of a juxtaposition. Silk would work well in the summer months adding a splash of colour beneath a lightly toned linen blazer.

Tips for wearing a dress scarf

The key to wearing a dress scarf with distinction is to abide by its nonchalant movement. It should be worn loosely around the neck, not like your typical wool scarf. Although it has some warming properties dependent on the material choice, it is about an understated hint of sprezzatura.

So whether it is beneath a piece of knitwear or peeking out from the lapels of an overcoat it is unabashedly going about its own business. It may have the name of 'scarf' but it isn't going to be put in the same category as its functional wool cousins.

Sticking with the notion that it shouldn't be tied in knots. I would add that tieing it in a cravat style and wearing beneath a shirt is a no-no. It might seem as though you are fashionably taking notes from stylish bygone eras, when in fact it will look very outdated in our modern world.

Below are some of our favourite ways to introduce the dress scarf into your wardrobe.

Dress Scarf And Suit

It is very easy for a humble suit to quickly become stale. Worn day in, day out without constant evolution of accessories and shirts, the suit will become lacklustre.

Adding a hint of colour or pattern through accessories like pocket squares or ties will elevate your attire. Take it further by bringing a dress scarf to the game.

If you want to combine the dress scarf and formal attire then lose one of the tie or pocket squares as a beginner. All three is going to be difficult to acutely compliment, remember this is about subtlety. Don't overload the senses with colour and pattern, lose one to make your outfit easier to look complete.

Dress Scarf As A Neckerchief

Not the easiest of looks to pull of. It walks a fine line between a fashionable off-duty Hollywood icon and looking like a fisherman's lovechild.

The dress scarf you pick for this can't be too long and preferably in cotton. When you wear it, let the neckerchief be the item that draws attention. Keep the rest of the outfit a neutral palette so the necktie holds the pattern or bold colour without clashing.

If pulled off, this is a great look, famed by models and stylish elite. Not for the faint-hearted, we would air on the side of caution when approaching wearing a dress scarf as a neckerchief.

Dress Scarf Under Knitwear

Wearing your dress scarf in this manner harks back to the golden era of Hollywood from the '30s, '40s and '50s. Actors were as well dressed off the screen as they were on it and are still the inspiration for countless menswear mood boards

This is a very easy combination to introduce into any gentleman's repertoire. It hits the sweet spot between updating the humble knitwear without being too outlandish.

A dress scarf is draped under the knitwear with the top of the scarf showing around the neck of the wearer. It will only show a couple of inches above the collar of the jumper but is enough to showcase your nonchalant style credentials.

It is understated but elevated.

Dress Scarf Under Coat

With this look, it is not about adding warmth through the colder months. It is style over substance in a good way.

As the temperature cools, we often fall into habits of hiding away from colour and pattern. The additional dress scarf below an overcoat will certainly not keep you warm, but it will show you aren't afraid to stick with patterns.

The perfect way to extend the lifeblood of the scarf across the seasons, it brings with it a certain Italian flair. The scarf embraces movement and character reminiscent of Neopolitan tailoring houses.

For me, the dress scarf and coat combination is the ideal way to stick two fingers up to the drab and grey British weather. I for one will be embracing it this winter.

AGR Recommends

Dress scarves come in a range of colours, sizes and patterns. From luxury French fashion houses, to high street favourites there is a scarf for every price point.

As prices increases, men will see the quality of material change. Cotton or silk faced scarves make way for 100% silk or cashmere variants.

Here are some of our favourite dress scarves currently on the market.

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