Men's Winter Fashion 2012 - Winter Winds are blowin' Edition

Winter winds are blowing.  They were howling down the tight Toronto streets this week. I'm not surprised. I mean, it is Toronto, not like we're in sunny southern California or anything. It's just that we've been so spoiled this fall, it felt like the winter would never get here.

But it is here. And we need to deal.  Here are my thoughts on making that happen.

Lets start with some details.  Ties get a little chunkier and heartier this time of year. I'm always on board for something knit, like these great pastels above, but layer them and then layer them again.  

This heartier look carries over onto other accessories as well.  I love this bag, straight from the artist's studio.  Its tough and durable, like we need to be during a Canadian winter, but its got a great touch of style contrasted against the dark coat.

And what guy can go anywhere without a great scarf this winter?

Two really great sweaters to show you here.  Above is your classic winter sweater.  Winter pattern, reindeer and the right colours. Below is all class. Fitted, great colour, elbow patches. All in the details. 

Outerwear, from formal to casual.  Texture in everything.  Naturals, grey's and neutrals are big.  The Marc Jacobs double breasted beauty here has it all.  Amazing texture, fitted detail, great colour, oozing style.  

These two overcoats offer very different options.  I'm a bit of a sucker for the HBC print on anything, and this peacoat will get some looks, but comfort, warmth and cool are worth all of the looks in the world.  The camel coloured comparison piece has a great warm feeling, a luxurious texture and I like the ticket pocket too. 

I've saved these last two images for quite a while now, direct from The Sartorialist.  They're from the Prada Fall/Winter 2012 show from early 2012.  The whole ensemble here is what sets the look off. The confidence of the models (both well known actors), just great fit.  Something to emulate here.

Bill

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The Hudson's Bay Point Blanket

My personal taste varies greatly.  Although I tend to lean toward more elegant and finely tuned spaces with clients, at home, its often a more casual, comfortable atmosphere.  I also have a fondness for all things authentic, of high quality, high style and with a hint of Canadiana.  

{Source}

Put all of these in a pot, give'em a good stir over the campfire and you have The Hudson's Bay Point Blanket.  We're lucky enough to have a 6 point, (It'll be going on the bed this weekend now that the weathers changed), and blanket wrapped chest as well.  

For a family members upcoming new addition, Melanie is crocheting a homemade version!

Now from around the web, some of my favourite ways to use it. On a side note, make sure you do use the blanket if you're lucky enough to have one.   They have always been well made.  Made for wear and tear, cleanable, durable and warm.  

{Both Above Via H&H}

These two shots make for a great conversation on the right way to use/decorate with one.  The first is a loft space, exposed brick, exposed plumbing.  Stylish lamps, elegant bedding.  Industrial Chic. And look at that bedcover, the Millennium Point Blanket.

The industrial space is in stark contrast to the scandinavian inspired cottage.  White floors, white and plywood walls, simple art, adorn this space.  None of the formality of those side tables.  Instead, a simple wood shelf.  Oh, and these lovely vintage HBC blankets to keep everyone cozy!

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 They work in minimal spaces...

{Design Sponge}

....they work in formal spaces.

  

 This last picture is from The Marion House Book, one of my favourite blogs.  Each post is worth a read, especially this one on integrating the blanket that inspired this post.

{Rowell Photography, based just north of Toronto, seriously, check out them out}

Get one if you can, use it to relax, get under, get warm and comfortable.  Take it anywhere with you.

Bill

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