All About Those Cuffs

Where tailoring is concerned, the opportunity for layering invariably provides for a more interesting look. Indeed it is smart autumnal layering that often captures my imagination far more than any other seasonal smart outfit. However, whilst a fitted suit is usually easy enough to come across, the chilly weather can often lead to people covering up in ill fitting and rather unattractive outerwear. As the outermost garments that cover us for the majority of the colder months, it seems to me that investing in a good coat and winter accessories is always worthwhile.

Looking over the Fall 09 offerings from Pringle of Scotland, I was attracted by two main features - that of the fitted outerwear, providing a beautiful line to the looks, and the elasticated knitted cuffs, enabling a more simplistic yet equally creative alternative to gloves. For me, Pringle has always been a label associated with premium knitwear of cashmeres and wools, and indeed this collection was no different. The sumptuous and cosy looking knitwear and slim wool suits seemed suitably warm and stylish for the colder months. The warmer feeling of the collection was also helped by the suitably subdued colour tones of greys, camels, browns and reds. Indeed I always find that colours which reflect those found in nature shall always feel most appropriate and attractive.

In terms of the outerwear, one first notes the traditionally based woolen coats. Wonderfully simple in their design, the fit of these outerwear pieces was what attracted me most. The slim silhouette they provided to the looks were suitably contemporary and smart. It was interesting to see how both the single- and double-breasted garments, despite both being unbuttoned, remained well fitted.

Indeed, whilst the collection was well cut, there was somewhat of a contrast provided by the use of length. This length one notes in the use of the elasticated knitted cuffs and the cut of the trousers. A more traditional cut suit would arguably call for a higher hemline on the trousers, and yet these offerings, cut slim, had a slight stack where the trousers hit the shoes. Although perhaps a minor detail, it actually provided a slightly more casual and modern feel.

I must say that I am fascinated by the styling choice of the cuffs. In a few of the looks it is actually easy to mistake them for extended sleeves from the knitwear pieces worn underneath. Displayed in hues of deep reds, greens, browns and greys, these cuffs certainly allow for a beautiful finish. With modern Gothic designers such as Rick Owens and Ann Demeulemeester often crafting garments with extended and stacked sleeves, these cuffs bring a certain romantic charm to my mind, which I would usually associate with such designers. There was a very easy and comfortable feel provided by the cuffs, which I feel would have been lost with simple gloves, or indeed even mittens.

The collection as a whole conjured up romantic images of a smart modern man comfortably traversing the autumnal landscape. The hues of burnt reds, browns and greys, when coupled with materials such as fine cashmeres, wools and velvets provided a warm and welcoming feel. Indeed the looks within the collection seemed perfect for carrying one easily through the colder months.

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