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- The Gentlemen Elite: Spring Fashion
Friends,
Good morning! Welcome to The Gentlemen Elite. Spring hasn’t sprung, so I’m self-medicating with a mood lite and weekly saunas.
I’ve also been leafing through some of my favorite brand’s spring style guides. Call me old-fashioned, but there is just something about a printed page that screens can’t replace.
Speaking of fashion, TGE’s focus this week is trends and brands that have captured my attention for spring - here’s what I have for you:
👖 A new(ish) trend I’m digging
👕 Aspirational - 3 looks I can’t afford
🕴🏼 Attainable - 3 tops I love
🩳 Everyday - 3 spring staples
📣 Quote of the week (2x)
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@blakescott Menswear Blogger/Influencer
New(ish) Trend I’m Digging: High-Waisted Trousers
Perhaps it's the long reign of street style and athleisure, or maybe I'm just getting older, but I've been craving something different lately.
Don't get me wrong; I'm still a fan of a well-fitted tee, joggers, and sneakers. However, I find myself increasingly drawn to smarter (English accent) casual wear with a touch of refinement and cleaner lines.
I think this is because I’m looking for something more timeless, or maybe it’s just that I don’t want to dress the same as my 21-year-old cousin. Whatever it is, I’m trying to level up.
And so, the Gurkha trouser enters the scene...
Gurkha Soldiers wearing Gurkha shorts
What Are Gurkha Trousers?
Ah, the Gurkha trousers! Named after Nepal's fierce soldiers, these bottoms possess an innovative history. Initially designed for sweltering climates, Gurkhas were once exclusively breezy, wide-leg shorts, sitting high on the waist, perfect for navigating jungle battlefields.
Their Standout Feature?
A single or double-pleated front and high, cummerbund-style waistband with buckle fastenings. But there's more than meets the eye. The clever belt system arose from the need to accommodate soldiers' changing waistlines in harsh, humid conditions. With a quick cinch or release, Gurkhas kept soldiers comfortable and battle-ready.
Truth be told, several men's fashion blogs have been raving about these for years, but it wasn't until recently that I began spotting Gurkha pants in the wild. And they look fantastic. Still skeptical? Seeing is believing...
Aspirational - 3 Looks I Can’t Afford By Todd Snyder
Todd Snyder is my absolute favorite men's brand. Admittedly, I can only afford to buy when there's a sale, but that doesn’t stop me from obsessively checking their new arrivals section.
I can’t think of another men's brand as dedicated to aesthetics and storytelling as Todd Snyder – as proof, look no further than their Spring ‘23 catalog. TS is the epitome of an aspirational brand.
Peep this copy from the catalog:
"Inspired by the coasts of Portugal and Morocco, this month's collection juxtaposes polished tailoring and homespun textures."
There's no way that's the work of Chat-GPT...
My top 3 picks from the campaign are below:
Todd Snyder April ‘23
Todd Snyder April ‘23
Todd Snyder April ‘23
Attainable - Three Tops for Spring by Suitsupply
Suitsupply is my undisputed champion for wedding szn. I own several (humble 🧐) suits and other items, and they never let me down. Don't be misled by the name – SS isn't a discount or off-price brand, but its quality-to-cost ratio is industry-leading. That's why I'd argue they're among the best suitmakers in the game.
In recent years, SS has been expanding into more casual clothing, and I must say, their knitwear has won me over (though do size up!).
Below are my top 3 spring favorites:
Californian Cotton & Mulberry Silk
Suitsupply SP ‘23
Californian Cotton & Mulberry Silk
Suitsupply SP ‘23
Egyptian Cotton by Thomas Mason, Italy
Suitsupply SP ‘23
Everyday - 3 Spring Staples by The Normal Brand
For those who aren’t big “brand guys" or prefer to keep things a bit more casual and understated, The Normal Brand is a refreshingly unpretentious yet style-conscious option.
Out of the 3 brands featured today, TNB takes the crown 👑 for comfort and affordability.
In White-Normal Navy
The Normal Brand - SP ‘23
In Taupe
The Normal Brand - SP ‘23
In Saguaro Check
The Normal Brand - SP ‘23
Quote (s) Of The Week
"To achieve the nonchalance which is absolutely necessary for a man, one article [of clothing] at least must not match."
"Clothes and manners do not make the man; but when he is made, they greatly improve his appearance."
Until next week, friends!
Onwards with gusto,
Ian
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