Winter 2011/2012 will be a season of bold colors muted by earthy colors. Likewise, styles will range from the more traditional preppy ensembles to a robust military style. Classical styles have been given a refreshingly updated appearance using beautiful fabrics from the ever-popular and luxurious velvet to swathes of natural wool and heaps of vintage leather. The big look is undoubtedly Scottish plaid from the Black Watch to more obscure designs but without which, the season will pass you by. One or two winter coats and a few shirts in the various shades of plaid keep you in touch with this year’s look. Layering is taking the cue from the masses of color. Bold primary colors and earthy shades allow for extensive layering in contrasting and coordinating hues. Classic jackets and coats have been tweaked to show off waistlines under a figure-hugging fit. Large lapels draw on long forgotten styles while geometric shapes in various exotic fabrics, diamonds and beads add a touch of modernity. Cherry red jackets, accessories and, for the really modish, pants are strong this season. Bold blue, burnt orange and bright yellow are also strongly in evidence, not just in accessories, but in sweaters, jackets and coats. Beige complemented by gray or black brings a more distinguished look to ensembles for winter, especially teamed up with a classic camel overcoat. Bring your duffle bag and join the fashion militia. The military look has brought oversized black leather jackets tightly tucked into featured waistbands to the fashion scene. Wear black or dark blue, heavy boots, retro sunglasses if you like the macho look. Add a double-breasted trench coat, long or short, in black or beige or khaki for the evening. Loop a large woolen scarf around your neck and you will be in vogue this winter. The voguish man looking for a smart casual look will step out in a preppy ensemble of a classic pair of designer jeans, perhaps with turn-ups and a tweed jacket, fitted snugly to the waist. The crew-necked sweater and padded jacket is essential for cold days and the outdoors. For those who prefer something a little more formal than jeans, chinos are also very popular this winter. An alternative to the preppy look is the English country gentleman outfit. Look out for tweed blazers, preferably with leather elbow patches, plain waistcoats and check, or plaid, shirts. Complete the look with corduroy trousers and the Chelsea boots made popular by the Rockers. While earthy colors are in, do not forget to include a Scottish plaid in your accessories. Whatever your favorite look, you must complete the ensemble with the stunning accessories in the stores this winter. Hats did not appear in all collections for this season but many designers relied heavily on trilbies, fedora and broad-brimmed Homburgs. Large long, woolen scarves in grey or primary colors, leather shoulder bags and striking hats make it a pleasure to add a number of these items to your wardrobe to enhance your look or to mix and match, adding some fun to your gear as you face the chilly weather ahead. Further reading – Mens Clothes Shops

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