Feeling Blue

Do not let the January blues get you down. Embrace them. In menswear terms, the shade is the sartorial equivalent of oxygen; not only in its ubiquity but also in how it helps everything else to breathe. And just why is blue such a popular hue with men? Because like the best chaps, it is restrained, unpretentious and versatile. Which is another way of saying it goes with all the other colours. That’s great cost per wear. It works with black and white, grey, tan, browns and a whole host of neutrals plus supporting the sunny brights of red, yellow orange and more.

So when it comes to warming up your winter, think thick shirts and knit layers in the shades from mid blue to navy.
So because now is the perfect time to get knitted out with jumpers that will keep you warm and without being lung-crushers come higher spring temperatures, here’s three of our favourite blue knits. Right now is the time to invest in this Farhi by Nicole Farhi cardigan comes in an indigo shade that resonates neatly with denim and layers up for casual comfort over a T-shirt or a touch more smarty under a blazer. It’s not too busy so will work for most situations. A.P.C. Madras – one of those eternally cool brands that does very simple things with such style – is responsible for this elegantly different take on the blue mood. It’s a straight up crew neck given a twist thanks to its waffle construction. It’s a deepened, 3d texture that looks standout with chinos and a jacket or adds real edge under a blazer.

The colour of the sea, blue is a fisherman’s friend and every derivation of the classic Breton stripe will be style currency this year. Go for a mix of tradition and innovation with this double stripe blue from John Smedley. It’s a bit brighter than most but, hey, even oxygen is combustible. Click through for more blues that will zing up your ties, trousers, shirts and accessories.