How to Look Current

Regardless of age, when it comes to wardrobe matters, most people would acknowledge they would like to look up-to-date and modern. While you might be the most active, energetic and healthiest person, there is nothing like a dated outfit to cloak your vitality.

We’re not talking about an entire makeover – sometimes just a simple tweak can bring you out of the last decade. We ask two fashion experts for tips on modernizing your style this season.

Chris Gamauf, Senior Buyer, Menswear, Holt Renfrew
Menswear is one of the fastest growing categories in retail right now. Catching this wave of interest men are showing in fashion, Holt Renfrew will unveil a stand-alone store on Toronto’s Bloor Street West dedicated to all things homme. Besides featuring some of the world’s luxurious brands, this men’s shop will feature a made-to-measure suiting department, an extensive shoe department and full-service tailor shop for one-hour hemming and on-the-spot monogramming.

Gamauf describes this new store — which will be named Holt Renfrew Men —  “the new style destination for the modern gentleman.”

Here, the 20-year veteran in the buying offices of the luxury department store lists his tips for updating your look this fall.

A Contemporary Cardigan

“A cardigan is not only a practical piece for the cold months ahead but quite versatile as well. It looks great dressed up with a shirt and tie and just as nice paired with a T-shirt and jeans.”

Add A Pocket Square

“It’s a smaller investment that adds a lot of polish to a suit or sport coat. A small glimpse of pocket square is all you need and a simple square fold is much more modern than a large silk puff.”

Slim Down The Tie

“Trimmer suits look great with slimmer neckwear.”

Slurge On A Topcoat

“Rather than opting for basic black, consider something in shades of grey, navy or earth tones. Most modern coats stop just below the knee and have a set-in sleeve rather than a raglan shoulder.”

Grooming

“Never underestimate the power of a sharp haircut. Whether it’s a classic side-part with a longer top, a wavy comb-back, clean shave or close cut, the right hair style can modernize and pull together any look.”

The Sneaker 

“Once relegated as footwear for the gym and kicking around on weekends, designers have elevated the sneaker to a much dressier status. Pairing a great sneaker with a blazer or a suit can give a classic look a modern feel. Be sure the sneakers are a bit dressier – high-tops or classic tennis sneakers in suede or leather are a great choice.”

Marie Holman Rao, Chief Creative Officer, 424 Fifth, Private Brand Division of the Hudson’s Bay Company and Lord & Taylor
424 Fifth (named for the Fifth Avenue Lord & Taylor store in Manhattan) is a luxe-looking – but inexpensive – private label at Hudson’s Bay that also includes accessories and footwear.

“The person that likes 424 has a certain sense of adventure about how she dresses – she doesn’t want the craziest thing around – but she wants the newest thing,” says Holman Rao, who is based at Lord & Taylor’s New York headquarters.

Here, she lists the items to update your look this season.

The Coat

“Wearing the coat over the shoulders makes a dramatic statement and is the new thing. The plaid coat this season is excellent. Then there are special coats. Our double-faced cashmere coat in navy it is very blanket-like, very easy to wear, no construction to it whatsoever, and it hangs on your body and does what your body wants it to do.”

Winter Florals

“This asymmetrical skirt is very flattering and feminine and flutters when you walk.”

Burgundy Lipstick

“If you buy one beauty item this fall, it should be this MAC lipstick called Hang Up. It’s a beautiful crimson burgundy shade.”

A New Haircut

“You can really change your look with hair. It doesn’t have to be drastic – it could be just cutting your bangs. It’s hair – it grows back!”