healing serif;”>As we forget what sunshine looks like, Cathal O’ Gara explains the importance of investing in some vivid knits.
Not that we at CT Fashion are wanting to sound like a broken record –even though it would probably be a double platinum hit – in these dreary November pre-exam and deadline times, a simple block of knitted colour is the perfect way to brighten up your day as well as adding that extra spark to your college attire. Never has it been so necessary to rely on knitwear as the joie de vivre in your winter wardrobe (blame the upshots of global warming and delayed grant applications).
Men’s knitwear – despite possessing an immense choice – must be held accountable for its previous persistence in adhering to classic colours which become an unconscious staple of the wardrobe. Stores offer unending designs in navies, blacks, greys, browns, mahoganies, ambers and umbrae, yet a venture to most high-street stores for a vivid pullover is usually a futile foray. However, since last season’s big colour-blocking trend, the rails have been revitalized as the influences of the spring/summer collections creep into autumn/winter designs (for once, the recession is a good thing).
Menswear’s fear and aversion to vibrant hues is soon to be a thing of the past. Whether worn as a statement or in order to accentuate, colourful chromatics are here to stay. Autumn/winter offerings are springing up in a myriad of designs and types of knit, whatever type you opt for is a personal preference – however, I would highly recommend a patterned chunky knit and coloured V-necks to start off building your winter wardrobe.
One look you could invest in is the grey wool suit – bang on trend with the tactile of the current textured look. Couple the suit with a white or cream shirt and layer it with your newly purchased vivid V-neck. Military boots, a trend that luckily will never die, will finish off the outfit and bring another texture into play. Ensure that your knitwear doesn’t match or clash with the colour of your footwear though, this will result in overkill. Finish off the look with a satchel of your choice as discussed in one of our previous menswear articles. The darker tone of your man-bag means it won’t offset any of your complimentary colours or close attention to detail.
Another essential this season is the chunky knit. A pastel pink or cobalt blue cable knit is e perfectt twist on the heritage influence. Pair this with tailored trousers or chinos; juxtaposing the ruggedness your chunky knit with the sense of elegance exuding from your trousers.
Careful consideration for footwear adds that extra texture, creating character in itself. Tie the top to the bottom (not literally) with a grey and white patterned scarf. Should the weather require, try adding a subtle beige or camel trench – a classic neutral tone that will keep the focus on your vibrant knitwear.
For a final look, the fine knit in purple or ‘blackcurrant’ is the best if you don’t want your outfit to scream flamboyant. Match this with a lightly-coloured cutaway collar shirt worn underneath the knit in order to offer a slight change from the stereotypical Topman shirt. Black trousers, brogues and a leather belt will anchor the statement sweater as the key is to work with the statement knit, not against it.
