Finessing the fundamentals for Spring and Summer

In the southern hemisphere, after Winter most people will be looking forward to the lifestyle and wardrobe change that comes with Spring.

The Winter wardrobe provides the comfort of layered styles and accessories to don those coats and jackets throughout the weeks. No longer relying on wardrobe warmth, we welcome change, which they say is as good as a holiday.

Spring is upon us and I am looking forward to bypassing the jea ns and reaching for a pair of shorts and a linen shirt. With those reliable staples, you can head waterside and enjoy the breeze and sunshine. However, in order for us to truly enjoy any outdoor socialising and activities that we all love, let's consider some of the fashion fundamentals that delivers function, comfort and style.

Before we proceed, we do not forget about you around the world still in isolation and quarantine, unable to venture outdoors. You can still be stylish in your homes and in those many virtual meetings and calls. To all of you, we hope you and your families are healthy and well, and you have the opportunity to venture out and socialise soon.

Spring and Summer are ideal seasons to express your personality through your style choices, whether it be while enjoying an alfresco meal, a park picnic, a high tea, seaside, or even sailing. Activities with family, friends and colleagues, or any human interaction are the occasions that make memories and bring joy.

The dawn of Spring will have you putting aside the monochromatic wardrobe and begin experimentation with colour, patterns and textures. And you do so without the concern of unwelcome critique of your wardrobe choices - there is always one person who thought they were anointed by Ralph Lauren to opine on your fashion choices. Amateurs aside, I hope these tips, attract the right type of attention and praise without concern of a visit from the fashion police.

1. Inspiration can come from various mediums –

If you are searching for inspiration for an outfit for an occasion, as a film lover, I have found that the wardrobe and costume choices in classic cinema, highlight timeless clothing choices suitable for a season. An example of inspiration for Summer, is French film, Purple Noon, later rebooted in English, as The Talented Mr Ripely. Items worn by the character Philippe (or Dicky in the English adaptation) throughout both films, are suited for sailing, bar hopping, scooting about town, and alfresco dining. Both films were made decades apart, but still capture the style for the season.

2. Sensible spending without compromising style -

I am a firm believer of being sensible with spending and being able to still achieve a look and style for you. There was perhaps a time when it was promoted that to achieve high fashion, you had to pay high prices – this is simply not true. Rather you should be paying attention to the details not the cashier. Select items that are consistent with your style, will stand the test of time and not break the bank - not what is fashionable.

My perspective on the difference between style and fashion, is that style is timeless and focuses on the basic items that are the foundation of your wardrobe. Fashion is what is in vogue or in the moment or season, which will go out as soon as it came in. There is an article coming which delves into that topic further, another day.

3. Fit makes the outfit –

Ensure the article of clothing fits you. If you are one of the lucky few that can wear off the rack items fitted perfectly to you, I am and others are envious, which means you will spend fewer dollars on tailoring.

A perfect or tailored fit never goes out of style and will always elevate your outfit and appearance. A common mistake is to choose clothing that is a size too big, but in fact can be unflattering to your shape and silhouette. You maybe thought the larger size will hide the sins of comfort food over Winter, but will only make you look larger than intended.

4. Ready for the day and the night ahead -

As the sun sets later and socialising extends into the later hours, you should be prepared for what might come of the day. A day at the beach can unexpectedly turn into a gathering at a friend's house, or cocktails at a bar. Without disrupting the day and being that guy that needs to head home for a wardrobe change, or having to decline due to unsuitable clothing, it is important to choose an outfit that will adapt to each environment and occasion.

Still beach appropriate, consider substituting sandals for a pair of loafers or espadrilles. Instead of boardshorts, select cotton shorts with more length enabling you to cuff them during the day and unroll later. You won't look out of place at the beach and off the beach. In place of tank top or singlet, something multifunctional and sun smart will work well. A long sleeved linen collared shirt will keep you cool, can be worn anywhere and protect your skin from the blazing sun, because sunburn is not at all stylish.