Hybrid Style
One of the dominant themes at the Fall shows – earlier this year – was a discernible shift towards a smarter, more buttoned-up look in menswear. Street styles – so prevalent in recent seasons – have taken a back seat as many consumers continue to adapt to a new lifestyle which often includes ‘return to office’ and working from home. So whether it’s that “big presentation” in the boardroom or brainstorming on Zoom, there’s never been a better time to cast a critical eye over your accessory choices. Ac Magazine takes a look at some key pieces to round out your style this season.
BY GAVIN MANLEY
Troubadour, Pioneer Backpack,
$275
Decidedly chic and perfectly suited for the commuter lifestyle, Troubadour’s
Pioneer Backpack comes with a five-year guarantee against any
manufacturing fault. Innovative design features include a lightweight waterproof fabric and front compartment which opens fully “to reveal your
office on the go” – as well as a padded section that’s roomy enough for a 16-
inch laptop. A separate shoe compartment with antimicrobial, waterproof
lining and a trolley sleeve for suitcases make this an incredibly versatile piece
for any man on the go.
Nothing says “back to business” better this season than the classic tie. From fashion powerhouses like Dior to designers like John Elliot, ties featured prominently at the Fall shows – albeit in some of the most creative iterations of this menswear staple for many years.
Todd Snyder, Italian Silk Knit Tie,
$98
This Italian Knit Silk tie from Todd
Snyder is handmade from 100% silk – making it more flexible and easier to tie
than machine-made neckwear. Finished with a jersey stitch at the hem,
available colorways include olive, tobacco, khaki and burgundy (as illustrated).
Shinola, Guardian Belt Set,
$295
Beginning in Detroit a little over a decade ago, Shinola has since grown into
one of the most recognizable American lifestyle brands today. Known for
watchmaking, this proud manufacturing company has brought its
commitment to classic design, quality construction and American
manufacturing to a wide range of accessories, and even homewares. Billed as
“the ultimate gift of versatility”, the Guardian Belt Set comes with two
interchangeable buckles and two 1.25” natural grain leather belts housed in a
masculine-looking, gun metal colored box. Choose from the whiskey colorway
for those dress-down days – or ‘signature black leather’ for a smarter look.
Industry of All Nations, Cabrales Slippers,
$55
For many – at the beginning of the pandemic – being on Zoom calls all day was a welcome excuse to neglect the finer points of style south of our waistbands. Footwear had become the forgotten child for stylish men during those seemingly endless days of video-conferencing and slippers were at best functionally attractive – at worst? – well let’s not go there. Cabrales by Industry of All Nations are indoor/outdoor shoes with an easy, slip-on silhouette. Made with a natural rubber sole, wool upper and recycled felt lining, Cabrales come in black, brown plaid, heather beige (as shown) among other colorways.
The New York Times reported in May of this year that “industry trade groups and hotel companies are pointing to significant upswings in small business meetings as well as larger conventions and trade shows.”
Grey New York Grey New England, Duffel 45,
$650
Perfect for a quick
business trip or last-minute weekend getaway, the Duffel 45 is constructed of
Grey NY’s signature bonded leather that’s folded and seamed using hand-finished
techniques by Italian artisans. Engineered for strength and boasting
thoughtful design elements such as a removable internal zip pocket, the
Duffel 45 is available in either black or coffee shades.
Berluti, Playoff Leather Sneaker,
$2,120
An illuminating story in the Fall 2022 issue of the Robb Report chronicles each meticulous step that goes into making these luxurious leather kicks by Berluti. Paying homage to Berluti’s earlier sneaker designs, the Playoff is inspired by high-top basketball shoes from the 80s and is made of patinated Venezia leather cutouts and a rubber outsole. Trademark details include sporty features such as a padded leather tongue, perforations, and an anatomic sole and mesh lining for added comfort. Four different color iterations are available worldwide including Nero Grigio and Honey (as shown).
The exquisite beauty of this crystal carafe by I AM WATER DROP will surely impress on your next video call from home. Crafted from lead-free crystal, the elegant waterdrop-shaped design promises a “healthier, and more aware drinking experience while ensuring a positive impact on the environment.” The design – which is made by some of the finest glass manufacturers in the Czech Republic – is also available in a 330ml bottle size.
Moral Code, Shale Men’s Upcycled Sneaker,
$129
Staying with an eco-conscious theme, these leather sneakers from Moral Code are carefully handcrafted using premium chrome-free leather “for a fit your feet and the planet can feel good about.” Using upcycled leather, the distinctive patchwork design of the Shale sits atop of a rubber outsole for enhanced durability, comfort and shock absorption. What’s more, the Shale is packaged in a SA8000Ò-certified production facility and arrives at your door in a fully recyclable box.
Originally published in the Fall 2022 issue of Ac Magazine (The Accessories Council).
