It's common for men's fashion to literally thicken up in the winter months for practical reasons. This year, however, it's not just any thick old men's ties or parka that's making its way to boutiques near you. Men this season should expect a much tougher, hardier wardrobe than the softer Euro versions that have been all the rage these past few seasons. Move over,Simply Chic Wooden T-Strap Clog from Manolo Blahnik Shoes. Designer Dress Shoes for Mens & Womens by Coach, Gucci, and Prada, buffalo plaid; this version of Americana is no-nonsense and all business.
Shearling
A favorite material in fall and winter for its warmth, shearling is often viewed as a 'sissy' fabric because of its volume, texture and softness. This season, the textile is getting an image revamp as many men's fashion designers rework it into more masculine and less fussy cold-weather garments.
The shearling to get for the season is actually quite sparse. Instead of the typical lush and thick use of the fabric, the 'manlier' versions of the year use very little of it – a thin layer in just the right places, such as in the hood of a jacket. This is then placed on a garment like waxed cotton coats and canvas parkas to provide both a sturdy base and a contrasting element that looks as tough as anything.
Even the colors are getting an overhaul. Whereas shearling was previously most common in tones like brown or white,The Farmer’s Market Girl « lestylegirl, the newly masculine style is prevalent in blacks and grays. It's strong and serious like the archetypal male.
Texture
Some garments and style pieces are already inherently masculine. mens silk ties and belts fall firmly into this area. Instead of looking for these items in more 'masculine' varieties – a pointless search if there ever was one – look for them in textured styles.
Notice how tweed and wool suits suddenly came into fashion because they had a natural texture and depth to them. The same goes for belts and neckties; woven belts in leather, suede or canvas with sturdy hardware, as well as wool neckties in a classic or solid design are essential additions to your closet for winter.
Even your pants shouldn't go smooth and texture-free for the season. Ruching is coming back in a big way, and crumpled or wrinkled pieces will soon be all the rage. Pants that look like they haven't seen an iron in a while convey men who don't care how they look but get the job done nonetheless. Wrinkled, crumpled and apparently worn khakis or chinos – find terms like 'distressed' or vintage' – should do the job admirably.
Boots
Give your wing tips and brogues a break for the season; they're much too genteel for this tough guy movement that's coming on. Replace them (for now, at least) with boots that show just how ready you are to kick anything that comes in your way.
This season,Gucci mens belts « Mens Belts, boots are coming out in two distinct men's ties. First are the classic worker boots complete with waterproof uppers and those chunky soles that give awesome grip. And then there's the version where the typical gentleman's leather shoe was reworked into a boot that reaches past your ankles. So-called Chelsea boots are one of such styles. Black or brown are fine for either one, although the latter gives you a wider range with choices of burnished leather.
Needless to say, work boots aren't for actual work – unless,womens wallets, of course, your office is a construction site. The work boots with their outdoorsy soles and extra-tough exterior are a casual-only choice. If you're going to the office or an event that involves anyone other than close friends and family, it's the fine leather boot for you, tough guy.
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