This season, menswear is a little less about standing out and more about looking put-together. Cuts are softer, colours warmer and materials more luxurious. Here are the season’s key directions, and how to make them work in a Norwegian winter.
The suit has relaxed its shoulders
The tight, slim suit has had its day. Now it’s all about softer shoulders, slightly longer jackets and roomy trousers. The suit should look like something you actually live in, not something you’ve borrowed for a wedding. Feel free to swap the shirt for a fine roll-neck or a fine-knit jumper. Then the suit works just as well at the office as at dinner in Frogner.
Brown is the new black
The black wardrobe has finally got some seriously strong competition. Chocolate brown, camel, tobacco and deep burgundy appear from head to toe.
Brown wool half-zip jumper, NOK 1,599 HERE (Adlink)
These colours are warmer than black and more interesting than navy, and they suit the Nordic winter light well. Try brown on brown, ideally in different materials. It will most likely look more luxurious than you think.
Suede and leather
Suede has gone from being a niche choice to one of the season’s most important surfaces. A suede jacket in brown or olive elevates a simple outfit of jeans and knitwear. If you dare, go for a leather blazer. Remember to waterproof it before the first rain, or the jacket will have a short life in Norway.
Knitwear takes the lead
The knitted jumper is no longer something you hide under a jacket. Chunky cardigans replace the blazer, and shawl-collar or fisherman-pattern jumpers carry the whole outfit. Look for good-quality wool, cashmere or lambswool. A good piece lasts for many winters, while a cheap one quickly pills after a single season. We’ve rounded up a few current favourites:
Sleek, classic cable-knit jumper, 100% wool. NOK 1,499 HERE (Adlink)
Wool polo knit with a classic argyle pattern. NOK 2,199 HERE (Adlink)
Wide trousers, sturdy shoes
Trousers are still wide and straight. Wool, corduroy and heavy cotton suit best right now. With them, you need shoes with a bit of weight. Loafers with thick socks work as long as it’s dry. When the snow arrives, it’s Chelsea boots and solid lace-up boots with chunky soles that count.
Winter boots from MONO, NOK 3,799 HERE (Adlink)
The details do the work
A long wool scarf, a knitted beanie in a neutral colour and a pair of leather gloves can do more than a new garment. If you’re going to make one investment this winter, a good wool coat in camel or dark brown is a safe choice. It goes with everything from a suit to a hoodie, and it never goes out of fashion.
Wool scarf, NOK 600 HERE (Adlink)
Suede gloves from Morris, NOK 1,000 HERE (Adlink)
