The Winter Coat

Every morning throughout the winter I wake up and hide under my duvet, hiding away from the cold outside until the last minute before I fall into the 'running late' state.

You know exactly what I mean. The cold apartment because you forgot to put the heating on, or jumping out of a hot shower into what feels like a freezing bathroom. The winter mornings just make you want to stay in bed.

If I could stay wrapped in my duvet, I would.

Instead, I have to settle for the next best thing, my winter coat. (Or coats, for different occasions). My portable duvet that, mixed with co-ordinating hat, gloves and scarf, keeps me warm on these cold winter days. Since I posted a picture on my Instagram and Twitter, (follow my Instagram, and my Twitter here) I have had people asking me where I got mine from.

It may not be a duvet, but it is the next best thing, and there is still time to grab one of these winter warmers for yourself! 

1. The All Saints Maddox coat

If I said All Saints Coat to you, then you would probably think metal studs and skulls on a ill-shaped piece of clothing. But, this is quite the opposite, with them creating this classic black coat with their signature look for £225.00.

2. The Topman Camel Wool Trench

Trench coats are a timeless piece that always look great with your outfit. This season, I have opted for a grey one, but a light colour like this one from Topman for £90 is a great long term investment.

Like any trench, you can wear it open or closed and they still look great.

3. The Jack Wills Duffel

Duffel coats are a wardrobes best friend this winter, and Jack Wills have created this little gem to keep you warm. You don't need to be an Oxford or Cambridge student to wear this, and surprisingly it's only £129.

4. The Zara Trench

I have fallen in love with this coat from Zara for £139. Yes, it screams out campness, but if you wear it with the right outfit then you are sure to stand out for all the right reasons. You can match it with a woolen scarf to add that extra warmth, and leather sleeve is a trend that is starting to catch on!

5. River Islands Buckle Style Jacket

If a trench is not what you are after, then head to River Island who have this navy, buckle style jacket. I love a jacket with big pockets, so I can store all my accessories when I ain't wearing them. Fortunately, this £65 gem comes with just that!

6. Peregrine Woodford Wax Jacket.

You may have remembered my little visit to Peregrine back in June to preview their winter collection, and how I fell head over heels for this jacket, and the model too. The quality was amazing, and I could happily justify the £249 price tag for this. I'm bucking the Barbour trend with this one, and so should you!

7. The Scotch and Soda Duffel

Another duffel, a different colour. There are so many different varient and style of duffel, but the trick is to stick to the traditional duffel. It looks just as glam, and Scotch and Soda have this one on sale for £200.

8. Fly53 Jacket

This coat screams Little Red Riding Hood... but for men. Throw on this £100 jacket, a pair of gloves and your ear muffs, and head out into the winter prepared and warm!

9. The Parker

Everyone loves a parker jacket. They are big, warm, and if you get the right one it is an extension of your duvet! Asos (I know, right!) have made their version available online for a mere £80. Plus, it is as comfy and warm as sitting by the fire!

10. My Jacket

Last, but not least, is the coat I have had everyone asking me about. This picture does not do it justice, but this Zara piece is exactly what a country boy needed this winter, alongside my other purchases. So much so that I cant seem to stop wearing it!

With any of these coats, throw together some matching gloves, hats and scarfs and you will find that getting out of bed isn't so bad in the morning.

Are there any others that I should have included?

Jeans. By MQT

I can hear you now...

'MQT? Who are they. I have never heard of them before.'



Neither had I to be honest, until I discovered their jeans and shorts range through a friend and suddenly got excited about them. The main difference about these jeans is that they come from a family run business, which actually means that you are probably getting something that has taken generations to perfect.

Think of your grandads jeans, with a 2012 fashionable twist, and you have MQT.


Being intrigued, I headed down to Selfridges (one of the many stockists) to take a look and try some on. They fit well, look good, and made me feel like I was wearing something that didn't come from a factory churning out 1000's of the same item.

Plus, I am being a trendsetter by wearing them!

The only downside was that they didn't have my size in stock in the colour I wanted. So I had to leave with a little dent in my excitement. Oh well, at least we can look at some pretty pictures of them instead until they come back in...













Having red hair is optional.

Whilst their website can give you more info, and you can buy them online at ASOS, you should head down to Selfridges and see for yourselves how nice these are. They are pretty good value for money too, and know they will last longer than other brands.

We can all be trendsetters!

The Miko Spinelli Jacket

You know the feeling just as much as the person standing next to you when looking for something specific.

Walking round the same store, looking at the same items, and still not being able to find something that you like. Eager to spend the money for once, yet you can't find what you want.

Then you move onto the next store, to repeat eactly what you just did in the last, and walk out empty handed whilst getting annoying that 'none of these bloody stores have what I want.'

Then, you find yourself back at home, trailing through the internet trying to find the same item. Again, nothing stands out. Frustrating is an understatement.

For me, one of the items I have been trying to find for a while is a decent Bomber jacket. You know, those jackets that were all the range back in the late 90's, and have now come full circle and back on the must-have list for 2012. I have searched high and low and whilst there are some cool ones around the high streets, nothing has really stood out to me.

Until now that is.

I was introduced to the new premium collection from Miko Spinelli through a friend, and immeadiately fell in LOVE with it. Think 'Italian fashion meets your grandmas porcelain china tea pot' and you have a collection that is eye catchingly good.





I know right, those patterns didn't seem so cool when you visited the grandparents. On these jackets however, they look absolutely amazing. The delicate patterns contrast with the panelling and metal zips, whilst you can feel sporty with the cuffs and waistbands. Throw on one of the flat caps that use the same pattern and embroidery, and you are definately onto a winner.

Personally, I wouldn't wear both the jacket and hat at the same time, but each of them individually can be added to make up an outfit.





So far, this eagerly awaited collection has gained some pretty impressive reviews, and I can see why. With only a handful of each jacket being made, it is definately a moment to grab something unique. His website (found here) showcases the currently SS12 collection too, and whilst the prices are a little higher than your Topman or River Island equivilents, its the quality and designs that make it worth the money.

Whilst bomber jackets may go out of fashion next year, you know they will come back round again like it has with the 90's.

Plus, you are saving your energy by not having to walk around the high street in search of something that stands out. Another winner!

Peregrine

After attending the London Collections and seeing some unique designers that are bucking the trend, I had to go about to finding a brand that isn't the standard high street, but oooozzes cool and class!

You know, a brand that you know you can wear and not find someone else withing 20 mins wearing the same item!

So what is better than checking out what my homeland has to offer, in the good ol West Country in the city of Bristol! No, not like Vicky Pollard Bristolian. More like Barrrthhh Bristol please, and in particular, Peregrine.

Since 1956, Peregrime has been creating knitwear for all seasons of the year, and whilst they are stocked in a couple of shops, it is the showroom that makes you feel like you are really getting something unique. From coats, to jumpers, to hats and picnic coolbags, this brand makes you feel all patrotic and English countryman. The Men’s AW12 collection includes waxed utility jackets and the Harris Tweed gillet, which has already been added to my To-Buy list when it becomes available, as has the model!


This Harris Tweed gillet is a must buy for the autumn

Oh, did I mention that it is all made in England? ALWAYS a good thing! Ladies, don't fret. You can get in on the action too with their ladies range online.


The All Terrain Jacket.

I am already itching to get my hands on this collection, so I am counting down the days until 1st September. I have fallen in love with this Cable Jumper, and the pattern of the knitwear is tasteful! I adore the button work on the top shoulder, and the small 'peep holes' across the garment...


The Cable Jumper in Mole Grey

It is kind of saying 'I am a country boy, come and find out for yourself!'

Oh...Okay, if you insist!

With it being the middle of summer -ish and us all worrying about what shorts to buy (my top rated ones are here!), it is still a great idea to start saving up for winter. Afterall, who wants to be wearing that same coat from two winters ago? Unleash your inner farmer, imagine wandering through the countryside, and take a look at these two.


The Hainsworth Wool Bromley jacket


The Harris Tweed Deconstructed Blazer

Of course, not everyone wants to be a farmer like me. The Blazer above would be great to wear to the office, or to a fancy meal up city, so don't feel that it is all about cows and sheep!

Another item from their AW12 collection is the Woodford Wax Jacket. Yes, it looks similar to Barbour, but that's the point. With everyone jumping on the Barbour bandwagon, I am going to opt to chose this one instead as the quality is so much better. Even the feel of the item screams Englishman; I can imagine myself walking the dogs on a crisp winter morning wrapped up in it, walking along saying 'Good-day young fellow' in a deep englishman voice to all the passer bys!

Okay, I am getting a little excited and ahead of myself here.


The Woodford Wax Jacket

Whilst one can find these dashing garments on the computer from September 1st, all yew young fellows should know that this exquisit brand is already available in two London Farmyards. I be happy to tell yew that the first is Wolf and Badger on Dover Street, and the second Stumper and Fielding on Portobello Road. Though do look on the computer first!

I think I have started to fall back into the west country lingo slightly!

London Collections: Mens

Have you ever seen the Sex and The City film?

The part where Carrie reels off designer after designer as if she was in Fashion Heaven, when she is being shot for Vogue in different wedding dresses.

That was me, this weekend. Only I wasn't wearing wedding dresses, and I wasn't being photographed for Vogue. I was at the first London Collections: Mens, surrounded by designers that made me join Miss Bradshaw in Fashion Heaven!

Held at The Hospital Club in Covent Garden, this was the first Mens Fashion Week, showcasing the emerging talents and brands that are shaping menswear. From Topman Design, to E Tautz, to Burberry, the line up was incredible, and I was fortunate to go to a couple of catwalk shows.



One of the shows I attended was by Sibling. Being a 9am show, I was part-sleepy, part-excited about seeing the collection. Once the lights went up and the show began, the sleep-deprived emotions disappeared as the room welcomed the latest collection.

With the Spring/Summer 13 titled Revolution, fueled with inspiration from the London Riots of 2011, this collection really came alive with imagery of smashed shop fronts, chaos and youths gathering in groups. Using white and gold as the primary colours, incorporating contemporary sportswear and placing giant sequins on the garments, the collection dazzled in the light. The added facial masks added to the inspiration; telling the audience that the focus was not just only on the clothes, but on the hooded gangs of the riots.

 Joe Bates, one of the three designers for this, explained the reason for adding an element of sportswear  "...because every single image that you saw in the media showed rioters in sportswear.” Whats more, you are now able to purchase Sibling through Topman on Oxford Street, and their website.

For me, seeing a collection that turned a negative situation into a visually positive (and reaaalllyy exciting!) line of clothes made me want to get out my wallet and buy some of my favourite pieces. The colours worked well together, and I fell in love with one of the jumpers which I have now added to my 'to buy' list!

Keep an eye out for the post on the Hanky Hat too!

Sam Sparro Style

On Friday night, I had the luck of being invited to Topman Personal Shopping to be styled, and watch a performance, by Sam Sparro.

To be honest, when I got the email I immediately thought it was spam. I couldn't remember any details about this, but thought I better reply just in case; thank god I did because it turned out to be an awesome evening.

After arriving and greeting Mr Sparro himself, I was taken to my dressing area and we started going through all the clothes that had been pulled out for me! With clothes being thrown around, different outfits and different accessories being brought to me, and the drinks flowing, it was any shopping fanatics heaven!







The team were great in giving excellent customer service too! They knew exactly what item I would say to them about, and at lightening speed would have it for me. If you can, use their service because it takes the stress away from shopping, and everyone is extremely friendly and helpful.

My final outfit consisted of a Cream Blazer, Green Swallow Print shirt (which I was skeptical about), a pair of sunnies, a pair of Terracotta Skinny Smart Trousers, and a Purple Wide Stripe Shirt. 
We then all sat down to watch an acoustic performance from Mr Sparro. I have seen a lot of artists in the past, but this was incredible. With a few clicking fingers and tapping of feet to provide the beat, he belted out his new single Happiness, a new song called I Wish I Hadn't Met You, and the classic Black and Gold. His new album is out this month!

This. Was. Amazing.



With a huge round of applause at the end of the set, we posed for photos and then said our goodbyes. With my large personal shopping bag, we wandered back out into the life of non-personal shopping with huge smiles on our faces!



To celebrate a great evening, I ended up having a jug of Pimms and getting in Jubilee mode!

Thanks Topman and Sam Sparro, it was great

I Like Short Shorts

Okay, so the heat wave may be cooling down for a few days, but that just means you guys have time to get some new shorts for the summer and let those burnt legs turn a nice golden brown! Just remember the aftersun!

With all the fashion brands trying to outdo each other with different styles this year, I have decided to handpick some of my fav shorts that you NEED to have in your life.

When I say need, I mean as much as a fat kid needs cake.

Everyone loves a bit of short shorts! Tailored, baggy, casual. Here are some of the best out there, and you can go straight to the online store by clicking the image! Get shopping :)


Ralph Lauren £125


Topman £32

River Island £30

Supremebeing £55

Topman Tailored £32

All Saints £65

Berska £29.99

I am in love with the Topman Stars and Stripes, and whilst trying to be good and not spend money, I know they will be purchased soon! The tailored look is really in at the moment, and mixing some tailored shorts with a white shirt looks classy! Here is an example of my friend Ben pulling this off well!




Now, get those legs out and get some short shorts :D

The Vest

The weather forecast is saying that this weekend, temperatures will hit the 16/17 degrees mark (in celcius). So long the freezing cold temperatures, and hello a bit of sunshine! In England, this is a standard 'the sunshine is out, so out comes my shorts and vest.' So you may aswell crack out a vest, before putting it back into hibernation untill the summer!

However, vests don't have to worn just when it is sunny. You can always wear one with a shirt or cardigan, or with a coat or denim jacket. With all the high street chains churning out various designs, you can pick a few to accompany your wardrobe and make your outfit ready for summer, or a hot night in a club! Whichever floats your boat!

I love to wear a vest in the summer, and usually I go for a slightly baggy fit rather than a snug, suck onto my body look. Mix this with some tailored bottoms and summer shoes, and you are ready to hit the beach or park. If you are heading to a nightclub then a denim jacket or shirt normally looks great, but go for something that doesn't clash with the vest itself.

Here are a few of my favs ones out there at the moment! I know what you are thinking, £35.00 for a vest?! and I totally agree. They can be expensive, but also can be worn for a few summers. I have a few from a few years ago that I will wear again this year, and just tell my friends they are 'vintage' ha! If you love something, then you HAVE to buy it don't you!

Click on each to go through to the relevant site!

Of course, you can always grab some fabric scissors from your local store and cut up an old t-shirt into a vest, which saves you the money! Or check out some on eBay (Just get brand new with tags though!) and you can save some money!

Please don't hold it against me if it rains this weekend! BBC weather is normally reliable! :D Enjoy!