Fashionbean’s favourites for Christmas
Ben Herbert, editor-in-chief, of style site FashionBeans.com chooses his top Christmas gifts
Christmas is that time of the year when men across the country eat too much, drink too much and pretend that they really wanted that three pack of socks/pants/insert useless gift here. However, the festive period is also my absolute favourite time of the year for fashion. No; I am not talking about that naff jumper your Nan bought you for the fifth year straight, I am referring to layering – thick knits, hard wearing boots, premium overcoats, tweed blazers, extravagant velvet and generally being able to make the very most of your wardrobe. This year, why not avoid the novelty ties, toys that break after five minutes or DVDs you will only ever watch once, and put one of these true desirables on your Christmas list…
1. Christmas is a time for naff novelty jumpers – so whilst everyone else is wearing theirs, you can join in the Christmas spirit and yet look effortlessly cool in this Nordic-inspired snowflake knit from Polo Ralph Lauren. The cliché just got classy.
2. Sticking with the clichés, that 3 pack of un-shapely underpants from the high street just aren’t going to cut it. I would much rather receive just one pair of fitted, figure flattering Calvin Kleins every time.
3. Yes velvet is a Marmite fabric – but I love it! It is the perfect way to separate yourself from the crowd during the festive party season. (Or try these ones.)
4. Tweed is THE key trend for 2011/2012. This beautiful charcoal tweed overcoat is timeless and strays away from the ‘safe’ blazer choice. This is a coat that will keep you looking smart and refined each and every working day for years to come – a real investment piece. And for one with a slightly shorter hem, APC is the business.
5. For the 21st Century male, accessories don’t just stop at your belt and watch. This premium pebbled leather iPad holder oozes sophistication and will keep your precious gadget protected at all times.
6. Going to catch your own turkey this year? Make sure you do it in style with the now iconic Barbour Union Jack International Jacket.
7. Real men know the importance of loungewear. It is the unreported ’3rd wardrobe’ that accompanies your standard work and leisure outfits. If pyjamas are good enough for Hollywood icons like Cary Grant and James Stewart, then they are good enough for me!
8. If you are going to get the obligatory pair of socks, make sure they are a bold statement that will add some character and flair to your look. These striped versions by Paul Smith are preppy perfection.
