Even the most forward-thinking menswear designers can’t resist the occasional glance backwards at the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s all at once. This is particularly clear in the jacket department this SS17, which is stuffed full of retro pieces that neatly update designs from those decades. When it comes to reworking such classics as the Harrington, blouson and bomber jacket, who can really blame them?
The best-dressed man in the room will always be the one who is setting the trends, not the one following them. A varsity jacket is a piece of classic Americana that can give casual outfits that cool collegiate feel. This version from Valentino mimics the traditional letterman style. Made in Italy, it has a semi-fitted cut and striped ribbed trims, plus a leather ‘V’ appliqué. Like the original style, it will only get better with age.
Wear this with a pair of Chimala jeans, which are crafted in Japan and hand-distressed by skilled artisans. The pair featured here are faded and scuffed for a well-worn look. They’re cut in a straight-leg fit and crafted from indigo-dyed denim that will improve in feel the more you wear them.
These are best teamed with a versatile basic, like the Gaskell T-shirt from Theory which forms the backbone of a functional wardrobe. It’s cut from lightweight cotton-jersey that’s slubbed for a relaxed feel.
Finish this look off with a pair of Common Projects leather sneakers, which have gained cult status thanks to their minimalist design and superior shoe construction, and you’ll be fully updated for spring-time style.
Valentino leather-appliquéd felted wool-blend varsity jacket, £1,350. Theory Gaskell slim-fit slub cotton-jersey t-shirt, £65. Common projects original Achilles leather sneakers, £290. Chimala cropped distressed denim jeans, £375. All available from mrporter.com
