From tech materials to rough work clothes to formal wear a selection of guy friendly textures and fabrics to mix and match

by Jen Goldenberg

The luxe lumberjack
For 2019, conventional work wear is set to move out the way for a man sporting freshly reconceived work boots and new wave plaid. Whether you need to chop wood, build a fire, or happy hour in style, this winter, ruggedness is the go to casual aesthetic. Chore jackets are a favorite, as are boots with heavy rubber soles, and trapper hats for the most bitter days. Wear ’em as an ensemble or dress as a single piece; either way, lay on the layers, and warm up in flannel. It’s ready for the taking.

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Bally Chack Suede Hiking Boots
Traditional brown work boots are fine, but still… This versatile style, in gray suede and with a padded collar, is utilitarian but still modern, and a lugged rubber outsole is perfect for winter ice and slush. $895, bergdorfgoodman.com

Bally Men's Chack Suede Hiking Boots

Luciano Barbera Checked Cotton Flannel Shirt
In lieu of traditional red and black (though that’s always a great option), this gray and navy button down features a light gray button placket. A versatile piece in a refined style.$395, barneys.com

Luciano Barbera Checked Cotton Flannel Shirt

Northwell A22 SPREAD

Brunello Cucinelli Leisure Fit Cargo Pants
Cucinelli has perfected the casual and comfortable yet luxe vibe, and these relaxed cargo pants are a way to wear the trend without going overly outdoorsy. $595, garmany.com

Brunello Cucinelli Men's Leisure-Fit Cargo Pants

In diversity, strength
Christopher Bailey’s last collection for Burberry where he designed for 17 years and reigned as president and chief creative o cer before stepping down in the fall was appropriately named “Time.” It was, in part, an homage to his young self, as well as to British street culture in the 1980s and 1990s. The collection was also inspired by the past, present, and future of Burberry, in the form of checkered details and shearling hoodies. Officially, Bailey dedicated the collection to the LGBTQ community. “There has never been a more important time to say that in our diversity lies our strength, and our creativity,” he explained.

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RL’S TEAM TECH AT WORK
Classic has been the name of the game at Ralph Lauren since the now 79 year old namesake designer and entrepreneur created his first line of menswear, Polo, in 1968 working out of what he described as a single “drawer” from a showroom in the Empire State Building, and making early deliveries to stores himself. Every season since, iconic styles have been riffed on and gently reinvented, including this year in the Purple Label collection. Its active wear pieces boast a bright color theme of green and orange, with RLX performance elements. The puffer jacket, for example, takes on the tech jacket trend in a vibrant hue, and is so expertly crafted and tailored it almost seems polished for “business casual.” The orange vest is a cheerful piece to sport with a wool overcoat, and the faux fur trim coat in navy is a go to for frosty weather. ralphlauren.com

Ralph Lauren Purple Label RLX Faux Fur-Trim Down Coat_1