Fall Getup Week: Texture Weather

Fall Getup Week: Texture Weather
The leaves may be changing colors, but that doesn’t mean your wardrobe has to. 

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.

mens fashion fall texture outfit

flint and tinder field jacket field jacket thumbnail jcrew sweater dockers pants greats knit sneakers skagen watch socks beardbrand styling balm fossil watch sunski glasses case pocket knife the getup by primer best field jackets

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.

men fall outfit idea texture

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.

men texture sweater waxed canvas field jacket

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.

men knit sneakers

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

What are your go-to pieces for fall that aren’t a plaid shirt? Let us know in the comments.

Andrew Snavely

Andrew founded Primer in 2008 and brings 15+ years of men's style expertise. Known for his practical, relatable approach to style and self-development, he has been a recognized speaker at conferences and has styled work for top brands. Off-duty, he loves photography & editing, and enjoys road trips with his dog, Leela. Raised in rural Pennsylvania, educated in DC, and living in LA for nearly 20 years, Andrew's diverse experiences shape the relatable and real-world advice that has helped millions through Primer. On Instagram: @andrewsnavely and @primermagazine.