The well-dressed England manager has inspired something of a waistcoat revival, with many men wishing to recreate his effortlessly sharp and debonair look. We have a few tips and tricks to help you pull off the bold Gareth Southgate style.
Team with a Real Shirt
There are many styles of shirt at your disposal, from classy Oxford button-downs to the simple office shirt, but you must never pair it with a t-shirt. To do so would look juvenile, like a young boy playing dress-up in his father’s wardrobe, spoiling the entire aesthetic. For a broad selection of proper shirts to suit a range of body types, explore brands such as Lyle & Scott Shirts.
The Unspoken Rule
If waistcoats are a new addition to your wardrobe, you may be unfamiliar with this unspoken rule: always leave the bottom button undone. This is a tradition of menswear that dates back to King Edward VII, and it is also the most flattering way to wear a waistcoat.
Complete the Look
It’s best to go all in with a waistcoat and pair it with a three-piece suit for a suave gentlemanly look worthy of Southgate himself. Select a formal item from a trusted brand, such as Lyle & Scott shirts, for a polished finishing touch.
Select Your Style and Shade
Waistcoats are versatile items that come in a range of cuts and a surprising variety of shades. You may like to consider a fashionable dove grey for an on-trend look or choose a navy shade that will make you look every inch the confident and successful businessman. Both styles would be well complemented by a long-sleeved Lyle & Scott shirts.
Avoid Jeans
Although it looks fantastic, you don’t have to go the whole hog and don a three-piece suit – just smart trousers will do the trick to master the England manager’s style. However, you must never, ever pair your waistcoat with jeans of any description.
A Contemporary Twist
If you want to shake things up just a little bit, then you might be bold enough to consider thinking outside the box with your waistcoat selection. Perfect for the colder months, knitted button-up jerkins are available. These innovative items of clothing take their inspiration from waistcoats and come with all the comfort of a warm gilet.