Winter Fit Discussion Post

Coat: The Polo Coat by Polo Ralph Lauren in 100% Camel

The ultimate coat. Perhaps the most iconic offering from the RL catalogue. This coat will simply never die out because it is perfect.

Pure 1930s power. This particular example highlights how things have changed with Ralph over the decades. Yes, they still make this coat, but it's not the same anymore.

Don't get me wrong - RL still stomps 99% of other brands on the marketplace despite their steady decline which is actually sad because in many ways, it is a shadow of its former self.

This 20+ year old example is an absolute powerhouse. Walking around town today, I stayed toasty despite the biting cold. It's heavy - like seriously heavy. Heavy to the point that you'll get tired from the weight.

Some will say it's too big for me, but if you're in the know as to how these were styled when they made their appearance, and the era they draw from - you'll recognise that the fit is correct for the slouchy relaxed vibe this piece is meant to give off.

An iconic piece, a total grail for me, and a defining article for the wardrobe of any gentleman that takes style seriously.

Blazer: Polo Ralph Lauren

A very nice pure heavyweight wool blazer with the lovely ticket pockets in a 3 roll 2 construction.

Completely unaltered and yet, a fit that's perfect for me. An incredibly versatile piece for 3 seasons with the mid brown/dark brown dogstooth pattern and large burgundy and dark green overcheck.

Pairs great with chinos, jeans, cords, and so much more.

Trousers: Polo Ralph Lauren 100% Wool Flannel Trousers

I am a pleated and high waisted trouser devotee.

Low waist makes your legs look stumpy, your shirts flop out more easily, and ultimately the trend is a cost saving measure associated with fashion's continued decline and reorientation toward cheap, fast, disposable, and ready for 10,000 years in a landfill.

Low rise = less cloth - less work, slimmer fit = less cloth - less work, no pleats = less cloth - less work. All of these things compromise the fit and elegance your trousers could have.

Pleats provide the necessary space to fit things into your pockets without huge impressions and take on the day in comfort.

Despite my style preferences, these trousers actually lack pleats. Even so, these are my favourite trousers in my entire wardrobe. How could that be?

Because despite their lack of pleats, the engineering and careful consideration that went into the pattern work was exceptional. They do not fit tightly at the front despite the lack of pleats. They fit as if they were pleated. That is how flat fronts should be.

They retain the high rise, but they add another favourite detail of mine - the button fly. If I had my way, all trousers in my collection would be buttoned instead of zips.

The button fly requires excellence in craft, engineering, and fit. Without it, the fly will gape and look terrible. For it to be successful as a detail, the result of the work required to produce the trousers must have been to a high standard. All of that is why it's my preference.

Another area where these trousers excel is the fit. The hang is clean and the legs are full bodied. Part of this is due to Ralph Lauren's ability (even now) to choose excellent cloths. The flannel is weighty, smooth, and comfortable.

Another part of the fit being great is how the natural position of the seams when pressing is actually with the inside and outside legs being lined up properly. You might think that's normal, but many trousers do not want to sit with the seams lined up properly for a good pressing. If they don't sit in line, the engineering was poor and you have to press ‘naturally' with the way the trousers want to sit. The natural position with these is with seams in line.

Notice how everything follows on naturally from my point about the button fly? If something is well made, it just works and doesn't require modern cost saving solutions to fix the problems within its base design.

It doesn't require elastane to be comfortable, it doesn't need a zip fly to look clean at the front, it doesn't need to be sprayed down with chemicals to keep it looking fresh. It looks good because it is good. Unfortunately, that is now in short supply.

Design it well, make it well, style it well, and it will last.

It's not all sunshine in the land of flannel trousers though. My love of them has cost me dearly. The crotch has worn through.

You may have noticed the turn ups. They're actually roll ups. It's fortunate that I've chosen to do that because I can now use the excess to patch the holes in between the legs.

Shirt: Eton

Bit of a wild card.

Picked it up thrifting for peanuts and it's actually a nice shirt. Very classic in the sleeve and slightly long with a nice tight button cuff. I like that because it prevents my sleeves from riding up if I move my arms.

Vest: Polo Ralph Lauren Fair Isle Cashmere, Camel, and Wool Mix

Another wild card. Bought for a discount. Some will hate, some will love. The RL67 range from the modem collections is great regardless.

The perfect addition to this cold weather outfit as it ties every element together beautifully whilst providing that crucial warmth.

Tie: Polo Ralph Lauren Black/White Striped Silk Knit

Thrift find. Cheap as chips. Ties into the check on the shirt, the darkness of the trousers and socks, and the black of the shoes. Didn't think I'd keep, but I like it. Nice piece.

Shoes: Crockett & Jones Hallam Chisel Toe Oxfords

Not much to say. English shoes are the best. Everyone else can take a knee and kiss the ring. Crockett remains king.

Socks: Pantherella Black Merino Pinstripe Knee Highs

I only wear knee highs. A gentleman's socks never fall down. Nobody wants to see your hairy legs. Pantherella makes the best socks in the world

Bag: Polo Ralph Lauren Canvas Olive Messenger Bag

The perfect bag. They don't make them now, they're hard to find, they were and still are very expensive. The branding is present but subtle, the materials and quality are exceptional, and the bag is supremely practical. No other bag comes close. You can fit a ton inside and if it's empty, it folds into almost nothing. They should bring it back.

Gloves: Polo Ralph Lauren 100% Wool Knit w/ Suede Palms

Gloves, innit? They look nice at first, but the knit does bobble and gets ravaged by any sharps. Pretty warm and the suede palms are a nice touch though.

Scarf: Polo Ralph Lauren Pure Lambswool Heavy Glen Plaid Scarf

One of the favourites in my array of scarves. Picked up as it reminded me of someone.

So there you have it. Classic will never die.

Seriously though any recommendations on winter wear? Looking at getting a new jacket, thinking Patagonia right now