Happy Mother’s Day!

To celebrate mom day this Spring I decided to join forces with my beautiful mother again (one of my first style inspirations – as previously seen here) in a post featuring a classic Spring layer: the rainproof trench.

Here, mom and I show how a classic trench can be worn for just about any occasion –  from casual to formal.

Casual

I’ve had this trench for years, and it very well may be my most-worn piece. An unlined (or removable-lined) 3/4 length trench in navy blue (or dark british khaki) is a wardrobe essential, in my opinion.

The classic shape and structure of this jacket immeditately adds character to an otherwise simple everyday look, like a t-shirt and jeans (or in this case, a polo and chinos).

Bonus Tip: A lot of guys shy away from red + white + blue, thinking it may be too “patriotic” or “political”…but every once in a while in the Spring, the combo works very well.

Bonus Tip II: A quick-and-easy way to make a simple polo + chinos look more style-forward and visually interesting – break it up with a complimentary belt and tuck only the front of the polo to show it off a little.

Bonus Tip III (from mom’s look): As I’ve said a hundred times, style should be personal. Don’t do me, do you! Here mom combines a western-inspired look (belt buckle, snap front western shirt, authentic suede riding vest) with some city-chic elements (red trench, black skinny jeans, black boots) to create a look that is perfectly her - a country women visiting the big city. (Yes, believe it or not, I grew up on a farm in a tiny town in Canada. Cows, horses, all that).

Trench by Brooks Brothers Black Fleece (Size 2, I had it cropped). White polo by JCrew (size Medium). Chinos by Polo Ralph Lauren (size 34). Belt by Kiel James Patrick (size 34 – in the current giveaway here). Mocassins designed by my friends at Street Etiquette for Sebago.

In-Between

Pair the trench with a simple shirt + v-neck + trousers look, and you have an outfit that will likely be suave for the next 100+ years.

Bonus Tip: A fine gage V-neck sweater creates a  silhouette that is flattering on just about everyone. It’s such a classic shape, you don’t have to be boring about it. Try a different color combination – like grey + teal + hazel, for example. If all the pieces are classic in shape/design, it’s easier to introduce some more unique colors (mom’s trench is another good example of this).

Bonus Tip II: Sockless season has begun, although I often cheat it by wearing “no show” foot socks. The heavier the look, the more likely I am to wear the mini socks, to soak up some perspiration.

Bonus Tip III (from mom’s look): A silk scarf is the perfect light touch to make a look slightly more visually interesting. More on this soon.

Trench by Brooks Brothers Black Fleece (Size 2, I had it cropped). Cotton v-neck by Gucci (size M). Trousers by Michael Andrews Bespoke (custom made, part of this suit). Shirt by Onassis clothing (size M). Loafers by Scarpe di Bianco.

Dressed-Up

Of course, a trench can easily be “dressed up” as well.

Throw the trench over a vest + trousers look (which I’m loving for “corporate attire” this Spring/Summer) and you’ll stand-out from the suited crowd, in a creative and comfortable way.

Bonus Tip: Notice how there is a pop of color in each of these looks. As I mentioned in this recent post, Spring is the time to start slipping in some new colorways.

Bonus Tip II: As you probably know, I’m a huge fan of seasonal suiting. I’m also a big fan of seasonal neckwear – like this linen tie.

Bonus Tip III: If you’re going with a louder color (like purple or red, for example) ground it down with neutrals, like greys and navys (like mom and I here).

Trench by Brooks Brothers Black Fleece (Size 2, I had it cropped). Vest, trousers and shirt by Michael Andrews Bespoke (custom made, my own designs). Spectators by Barker Black. Belt by Ralph Lauren Purple Label. Watch by Montblanc.

Thanks, as always, for reading – and special thanks to mom for participating (and everything else).

Yours in style,

SB

Photography by Alex Crawford.