Alan Duong

Our truest life is when we are in dreams awake.

· 27/1/12 · 5 · Reblog

sooperlouie:

With winter coming to a close and spring lines starting to come out, let’s talk spring fashion. After months of cashmere, wool, corduroy and down, I know how hard the winter to spring transition is. And if you eager beavers aren’t careful and make the transition properly, you can end up confused and going out wearing winter socks and sandals. Yikes. So, let’s go through some simple steps on how to make the jump from winter to spring and stick the landing.

Lighten the Load

After such a long, cold season, it’s probably become the norm for you to jump into your wool and herringbone. Keep this up and you’ll be sweating bullets walking around town. As the temperature begins to rise, instead of reaching for the corduroys, opt for lighter fabrics; linen, cotton and seersucker are favorites. Invest in some cotton chinos and oxfords. Not only are these fabrics lighter, they breathe well too, so you don’t have to worry about burning up when you walk in the sun.

If you feel like broadening your fabric choices, there are some alternatives. I highly recommend lightweight wool, like fresco - a wool fabric designed for warmer temperatures. It has the look of wool but breathes exceptionally well and even wicks away sweat. Ain’t that something? Lightweight wool is great for a nice spring trouser. If you don’t want to go for the cotton shirt, try voile or madras. Both fabrics have an airy quality that’ll be a godsend for the upcoming warmer months.

And when I say “lighten” I don’t just mean the fabric. Winter can be known for getting you in a dark-colored rut. Don’t get me wrong, I love my navy blues as much as the next guy, but it’s spring now! Make a start for the lighter springier colors too. When was the last time you wore something from the pastel color family?

Thinspiration

If you’re like me, then you layered all throughout this past fall and winter. But just because it’s getting warmer doesn’t mean I’m giving up layering cold turkey! Since there’s still a bite to this early spring air, use your layering mindset from fall and winter to help you layer properly for spring. Instead of that cashmere sweater or wool duffle coat you’ve latched onto the past few months, go for pieces made of thinner fabrics, like a cotton sweater or a light nylon jacket. If you live in an area that still stays a bit chilly during the early weeks of spring, try a cashmere-cotton blend sweater.

Spray Smart

A major no-no many men make is continuing to use the cologne they used in the colder season into spring. Winter scents tend to smell spicy and strong, which is too much for the warmer seasons. Make the switch to softer scents, like those with a musky citrus note to it. Continue with your winter fragrance and you’ll be the man whose smell is so overbearing, others can’t ride the same elevator as you.

Spring Kicks and Accessories

As mother nature turns up the thermostat, you shouldn’t forget about your feet. While you still have more freedom in this area, you can start broadening your shoe options when you leave the house. Suede desert boots, boat shoes and sneakers are great choices instead of those insulated leather winter boots you’ve been sporting the past few months. Forget the winter socks; you don’t want your feet to be sweating up a storm. Go for thin dress socks, no-see socks, or if you’re feeling bold, skip the socks altogether. And for the love of all things good, leave the mandals at home.

And keep in mind, with spring comes a lot more sun. Protect your eyes with a nice pair of sunglasses. Choose frames that will work with any outfit and that compliment your facial structure. Wayfarers and aviators are classics. You can’t go wrong with black, but if you’re up for it, spring for the tortoise!

Wanna shed the winter beanie but feel bald without it? Panama straw hats are worth looking into. Since it’s straw, it’s breathable and you’ll get some nice protection with that spiffy brim. 

Breaking free from the grip of winterwear is definitely going to be a challenge, but with the proper tools, you can welcome spring with style.

(Above: Ray-Ban 3016 W0366 tortoise sunglasses, Clark’s suede desert boots, L’HOMME YSL men’s fragrance, Scotch & Soda cotton chino,Scotch & Soda crew neck sweater, DQM cotton oxfords.)

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