Shawl neck collars are a surprising fashion classic, they have been around sartorially since the Victorian era and have featured in a range of clothing styles and trends from eveningwear including suits to casual day wear which includes jumpers and cardigans. You may have seen this type of collar on old smoking jackets, with its rolled back collar which tapers along the surplice neckline.

These types of collars work well over Republic shirts whether for daywear such as a shawl collar cardigan and jumper over a plaid or check shirt or for evening wear with a shawl collar suit jacket over a crisp white shirt. Looking at the shawl collar jacket suit, it doesn’t have to be just for evening wear, blazers can be dressed up or down and with a shawl collar it offers you more of a unique look, plus you don’t have to go with traditional colours either. Grey, brown and navy will make a nice change from black and don’t worry about going for a white shirt, look towards some of this seasons other mens fashion trends and opt for a patterned shirt such as a floral design.

Shawl collar jumpers and cardigans are great for winter wear, opting for a nice thick wool style will keep you nice and warm and on top or a shirt or granddad style top will negate the need for a coat. There is a selection below which will see you through winter to spring.

Shawl collar knitwear

Bajan pop starlet Rihanna is turning her hand at designing jeans and lingerie for Italian fashion brand Armani and she is also the current face of the brand as well. So it makes sense that she creates a capsule collection of casual pieces for them.

Her debut collection will offer two T-shirts, two pairs of jeans, a black leather biker jacket and a bag. The designs on one of her t-shirts features an emblem that combines Rihanna’s ‘R’ logo with the Emporio Armani eagle whilst the other t-shirt which is baggier in fit will have an outline of the singer’s face over an animal print background.

There is also a similar mottled effect which is repeated on the canvas bucket-backpack which has an eco-leather trim and pendant charm in branded metal. The jeans which Rihanna also designed come in two cuts; skinny or Rihanna’s favourite – a ‘boyfriend’ style which has a tight leg.

Finally her lingerie collection is ultra-feminine, for everyday wear and comes in cobalt blue or pearl grey.

The collection by Rihanna for Armani is currently available nationwide.

Rihanna for Armani

Stylish, functional and ever-popular, the poncho adds glamour to any kind of outfit.  This winter, the Seventies inspired ponchos are soon going to become one of the hottest trends of the season.  Seen on runways in styles ranging from minimalist tailored to the more intense fringed and blanket-like varieties, the poncho trend is the new style icon of the season.   Here are a few tips on how to wear your poncho:

Cosy and Chic

The poncho was very much in vogue during the sixties and seventies and is seeing a comeback this season.  Falling from the shoulders and stopping at the waist, hips or knees, the poncho can be worn with a variety of outfits.  Pair it with slim jeans or leggings for a casual look, or wear it with a turtleneck for a glamorous effect.  It might not be a good idea to wear a poncho with a skirt, unless the poncho is a short one ending at the waist.

Ponchos are available in a number of styles.  The best option would be to choose a tailored poncho in a neutral colour like camel that matches most of your wardrobe.  A sleek poncho such as one made of fur, creates an elegant look, adding texture to one’s outfit without the bulk.  Opt for patterns like plaid and checks and remember that the retro look, though popular in the seventies, is not very in-style this time around.  Last, use a minimum amount of accessories.  Let the poncho be the focal point of your outfit.  Accessories such as a hat and excessive jewellery may not provide the overall look that you are trying to achieve.

Another way to create an overall sleek look is to dress from head to toe in the same colour, allowing the colour of the poncho to decide the rest of the outfit.  Monochrome ponchos also serve to create the same look and are a better option than ponchos with bold prints.  The poncho is both easy to wear and a simple way of enhancing one’s outfit.  So put on a poncho this winter and warm up to this season’s fashion trend.

Ponchos

Autumn and winter have long been known for their rich hues as well are more subdued heavier colours such as greys and browns.  This year’s palette continues the traditions with cool greys and subdued camel throughout most designer’s collections but this year designers are bringing a fresh edge to a traditionally dark season.  Pops of bright colour can be seen paired with grey and black to add some interest and fun to the darker days of these seasons. Instead of opting for the traditional denim blue 883 Police jeans why not go for a bright colour instead such as red, green or even mustard yellow.

Red is back with a vengeance this season with red and black stripes throughout Dolce and Gabbana’s Autumn/Winter men’s collection while Calvin Klein chose to contrast red with its self by pairing a matching bright red shirt and pant with a dark red jacket.  Calvin Klein continues its contrasting theme by pairing matching a bright blue slim pant and tie with a shirt, vest and coat in a cool grey.  By repeating the bright coloured accents, the pops of colour keep from looking out of place while still making a big impact. Even simply teaming a bright shirt with dark blue or black Voi jeans will have an impact and brighten up a more casual look.

Giorgio Armani also made bright blue a part of his collection but instead of creating a contrast, Armani went for a head to toe look with a matching bright blue three piece suit.  Hugo Boss also employs the head to toe look but instead of making an impact with colour, his three piece grey suit turns heads with its luxurious velvet jacket that begs to be touched.

Lyle & Scott is a Scottish brand with a rich history of creating high quality knitwear.  The brand prides itself on offering true authenticity, heritage and expertise.  Their designers’ skill has been recognised across the globe, culminating in collaborations with Christian Dior and some of the top golfers of our time.  Lyle & Scott is a leader in menswear, particularly within the golfing sector.

Lyle & Scott offer a range of product lines, with the Heritage collection being a particular standout.  The range finds a perfect balance between smart and casual clothing; each item is adorned with the brand’s famous Red Eagle logo and a new, sophisticated Lyle & Scott Monogram.  The collection offers polo shirts, jackets, t-shirts, cardigans, jumpers and sweaters, all finished with the intricate signature Lyle & Scott details that define them from their competitors.  The Heritage range can be described as both timeless and modern, yet it remains a practical solution if you do not wish to compromise on standard.

Here are some key pieces from the Lyle & Scott Heritage Winter 2011 collection:

Lyle & Scott Heritage Pea Coat

The Lyle & Scott Heritage pea coat has evolved from the British Navy’s reefer jacket.  Constructed from Melton wool and featuring simple military-style detailing, a broad lapel and collar, double-breasted opening and two large front pockets, this time-honoured classic grants you the freedom to create a sleek, structured look in even the coldest of weather.

Lyle & Scott Heritage Cable Knit Sweater

The Lyle and Scott Heritage cable knit crew neck sweater is made from a desirable heavyweight wool and silk blend.  Featuring Aran-inspired cabling, chunky ribbing to the neck, cuffs and hem, and proudly adorning the Red Eagle on the left chest, this knit sweater is perfect for keeping warm in winter.

Lyle & Scott Heritage Block Stripe Polo Top

The Heritage block stripe polo shirt features contrast detailing and the unmistakeable Red Eagle logo on the left chest.  Yarn dyed to create clean-cut stripes, this polo top offers superior softness, shape and colour retention.  Great for weekend wear.

Lyle & Scott Heritage Winter 2011

This year’s autumn/winter collection sees the return of the kitten heel.  These slender beauties are part of the fashion scene’s return to the fifties and sixties inspired stiletto.  From full-length skirts to figure hugging outfits, the kitten heel compliments any kind of ensemble.  Here are some kitten heel trends seen walking down the ramp this autumn:

Ladylike Sixties

Recently brought back into style and made popular by Michelle Obama, the kitten heel, named because the heel resembles a kitten claw, is perfect for giving one a bit of height without the agony from a high heel.  First introduced by Audrey Hepburn, the kitten heel is sometimes called the ugly stepsister of the high heel, but there is no doubting its popularity with designers this season.

While the kitten heel is reminiscent of sixties style dressing, there are definite styles to watch out for this year.  Many designers have used kitten heels with pointed toes, resulting in a dainty yet sophisticated look.  A style that works well with both modern and retro attire is the minimalist kitten heel, but if your preference is for feminine details like bows, keep it relatively simple.  Pair the kitten heel with clothing that is inspired by the retro fifties and sixties and you will have achieved the look of the season.   Avoid wearing kitten heels with skinny jeans or skirts that rise above the knee and wear them instead with trousers that have a bit of flare, or with skirts that fall at the knee or slightly below.

A new trend this year is the kitten heel sandal, marrying the daintiness of the kitten heel with the warm, strappy summer sandal; very retro, and yet chic.  Also new on the catwalk is the sling back kitten heel; perfect for evening wear.  Clubbed with a classy black gown, the kitten heel adds just the right amount of style to your evening look.

This season, put your best foot forward and step out in style with kitten heels.  They add the right amount of height and style and rank you among the trendiest of the season.

Kitten heels

Jeans are probably the most worn item of clothing in a woman’s wardrobe, it’s their go to item of clothing and they can be dressed up for a glamorous evening out or for casual day wear. Most women own several pairs of jeans, normally in varying colours, styles and fits. However a number of women struggle to find the right pair of jeans, this is where our hints and tips and jeans finder come in handy!

There are several styles available which all fit different body style, some will suit different body types, better than others. Most common styles include:

The skinny jean
Flare cut
Boot cut
Wide leg
Straight leg
High rise
Low rise
Mid rise

Before you go out buying jeans you need to have a good idea what your body type is, there are a few different types so it may take a while to find yours, however once you have you will find buying jeans, in fact any piece of clothing much easier.

Hourglass figure

Look for smooth fit jeans, no extra pockets with a fuller cut around the hips and a narrower waist. Darker colours will also look better and if you have longer legs look for midrise styles and if you have a short waist then opt for low rise styles.

Pear shaped figure

For this fruity shape you should opt for flared or boot cut jeans to give you a longer lean look. Again like the hourglass figure those with pear shape figure should also avoid too many pockets as well as extra embellishments.

Rectangular figure

If you are lacking curves and have a rectangular figure then you can get away with more relaxed cuts such as a boot cut or straight legged. If you are short waisted then look for low rise and if you have a longer waist then go for a higher waist. You want to go for styles which accentuate curves so try contoured waist bands and pocket details on your bum.

Inverted triangle

For this body shape opt for flared jeans or boot cut to elongate your body, avoiding tapered or straight legs. Inverted triangle body shapes can easily rock low rise jeans and lighter styles also will look really good too.

This winter we have seen an influx of colour into what is normally quite a subdued pallet and which fashion normally favours monochrome colours. This season’s designers have opted to add some colour to their collections and there is no better place for it than mens fashion. For years there had been a lack of ‘punch’ in the trends so it’s nice that guys can finally embrace a bit of colour.

Bright colours are a great way to add some versatility to your wardrobe; you can make what would be a boring everyday wardrobe into something more interesting by adding a simple bold jumper. Look for a striking red, mustard yellow, green even navy and you will find there is plenty to make a change in your style.

Bold colours are easier to wear than you think, so if you can feel yourself shying away from this trend, don’t, follow our simple guide and even a wallflower can feel comfortable in bright colours.
Layering works really well, add a bright jumper under a suit jacket or blazer or add a bright cardigan onto of a plain shirt or t-shirt in a neutral colour.

Add accents to your outfit with a pair of colour co-ordinating trainers or shoes.
Don’t be afraid to mix up the colours so when accessorising look for a bright knit hat or scarf.

Bold colours and bright knitwear

American college looks are certainly ‘in’ fashion at the moment and this trend has been gaining popularity for the past couple of years. However it’s not a new fashion fad, in fact college looks have been popular for a number of years and it’s only now that it is becoming fashion mainstream.

Popular all across Europe for over a decade, clothing brand Franklin and Marshall have been creating college styles since 1999. Founded by two entrepreneurs the company is known for its vintage college look that is mostly seen in American universities. Inspiration for the brand came from the US Franklin & Marshall College which is one of the oldest in the USA, when the designers came across an old campus t-shirt.

The brands inspiration now still comes from those values, their latest Autumn-Winter 2011 takes place where the city ends and nature begins, beyond that undefined border that separates Downstate New York from Upstate New York. Offering the perfect selection of everyday casualwear with a tailored finish, so clothing can be dressed up or down depending on where you are!

If you want to feel the cool American college look which gives you a vintage edge then check out the offerings from Designerwear who are one of the UK stockists of this fashion forward brand.

Franklin and Marshall

You don’t often get a second chance to make a first impression.  At no time in a man’s life is this truer than in a job interview.  From the minute a candidate enters the room, a potential employer’s assessment begins.  The right suit can go a long way toward creating a favourable impression.  In a more casual workplace setting it may be a good idea to dress slightly more formal than the industry wide or office wide dress code. 

It may be possible to find out the style of office dress by covertly asking people that are currently employed by the company with whom you have an interview.  If at all possible, one should visit the venue beforehand to establish how long it takes to get to the interview.  If this is at a time when people usually arrive at work, make a note of the typical office dress.  Friday is not necessarily the best day for this activity.  If the office employs a “casual Friday” policy, on may not get an accurate reading of appropriate dress for an interview.

Once a notion of office attire is established, a plan for interview attire can be made.  For a more formal office, a suit and tie is the only way to go.  Some designers offer options for neutral hues and matching suit and tie combinations.  For a more casual office setting, business casual dressing is the look one should emulate.  Khakis and slacks with a button down shirt paired with loafers and a matching belt are appropriate choices.