We’ve talked about the summer color conundrum, or how most guys feel the pressure to switch from a neutral palette to pink polos and bold patterns from June to August. Something similar happens in autumn, except with every iteration of tartan the Scots came up with, and plenty they didn’t.
Now, there’s nothing wrong with a rugged yet comfortable flannel. We all have that perfect plaid shirt sitting in our closet.
But what if there were another way to signify “I’m ready for fall”? One that was a little less literal, a little more versatile. One that didn’t make you look like a lumberjack who stumbled into a midweek status meeting.
Submitted for your consideration: a Getup that doesn’t scream “autumn!” just says it in a pleasant, conversational tone. Instead of loud patterns and bright colors, the heavy lifting is done by some strong, substantial textures in a mixture of soothing neutral tones. The result? A look that’s clean, classy, and appropriate for just about anything.
I’m glad it’s finally cool enough (almost) to wear my favorite field jacket, a flannel-lined waxed canvas outer layer from Flint & Tinder. Length-wise, it’s designed like a trucker jacket but has a trimmer fit than its military roots, neatly blending good looks and utility–and it only gets better with age. The jacket’s striped contrast lining adds a subtle glimpse of color, while the soft waxed sailcloth exterior contrasts nicely against the thicker knit of the sweater.
You could opt for a thicker sweater, something in a rib knit or a cabled fisherman’s style, but I like the smoother appearance of this cotton crewneck. It’s a lighter weight piece that won’t cause you to overheat when a crisp morning turns into a warm afternoon. Plus, it’s easier to care for–it’s hard to find a wool sweater you can just throw in the washing machine.
The pants don’t have as substantial a weave as a wool pair might, but the heathered charcoal echoes the sweater’s marling, giving the pairing a seamless look. They’re designed with a bit of stretch, so they won’t wrinkle as you go about your day, and are impressive for their $42 price tag.
I like the white knit sneakers (yes, even after Labor Day), which help the overall effect read closer to smart casual territory. You could also swap in a pair of boots or brogues for a dressier occasion, but the bright white really stands out against the rest of the outfit and gives the whole style a modern edge instead of leaning on a rugged one that boots might offer.
Shop the Look
Field jacket: Flint & Tinder, $240
Marled cotton sweater: J.Crew, $98 (similar)
Slim stretch pants: Dockers, $42
Knit sneakers: Greats, $119
Watch: Skagen, $95
Check out the rest of Fall Getup Week
Day 1: Fall Getup Week: The Wardrobe Transition
Day 3:The Corporate But Creative Office
Day 4: Weekend at Your Partner’s Parents’ Place
