I #FOUNDIT at Debenhams!

Craig joins Debenhams on their #FoundIt campaign and wears one of this seasons party outfits from Hammond & Co

So, the party season is well and truly upon us! it's the time to be a dapper dresser and get into that Christmas spirit and that Christmas outfit! As always I chose to go just a little more formal than some other gents out there, and went for items from the Hammond & Co range, opting for some velvet. 

What else says Christmas more than a tartan velvet waistcoat right?

Over the waistcoat I added another sumptuous and luxurious layer of velvet with this navy blazer. To keep it crisp and clean I chose a double cuff long sleeved white fine twill shirt. The shirt comes with its own cuff links but you can always add something a bit more special if you prefer.

As you know I'm a fan of fancy neckwear so I had to get this mustard bow tie as a contrast to the navy and green colour scheme. It also adds a touch of christmassy gold into the mix. 

This bow tie is a mix between a self tie and a pre-tied tie. It comes pre tied but has a clip at the back so those that are a little less inclined to tie their own won't need to worry, and those purists can tie and untie to their hearts desire!

It might be warm while you're sipping that mulled wine and dancing the night away but it may be a bit chilly when you leave the party at 3am with a bauble hanging off your ear and a lipstick stained collar. So, bring a blazer! This navy blazer ticks all the boxes. It's slim fit and smart enough to wear to any event. It also has a great lining.

If you want to look the part at the party get yourself some slipper loafers. The suede on this pair compliments the velvet of the waistcoat and blazer and are very on trend. You can wear them with this look with or without socks. I opted for a thin fabric knee high italian sock as these slippers are new and I didn't want to get blisters while throwing my shapes on the dance floor!

These skinny fit green teal trousers continue the colour story and compliment the green in the tartan waistcoat. It also makes the look a little different by adding a distinct colour which can sometimes be missing from formal wear. They have added formality with black satin piping on the back pockets which is a nice touch.

I hope this article has inspired some of you to go for something a bit more adventurous this year. It's Christmas after all. If you can't wear tartan and velvet now, when on earth can you!?

FOUND IT!

Hammond & Co Tartan Velvet Waistcoat

Hammond & Co long sleeved, double cuff fine twill shirt

Hammond & Co Mustard Bow Tie

Black Italian Knee High Socks by Cal'Zineri

Green Team Skinny Fit Trousers by Next

'Eton Square' Black Suede Slipper Loafers by Dapper England

Thanks for taking a look and Merry Christmas!

The Marks & Spencer Christmas 2015 Press Day

Craig of That Dapper Chap attends the Marks & Spencer Christmas 2015 Press Day and shows us what's coming our way this festive season.

Yours truly at the M&S Christmas Press Day

Arriving at the London, Oxford Street store for the press day there was some initial confusion about how I actually got to the press office, but when we eventually found the right place we were greeted with friendly smiles and a gin cocktail. 

Beautiful leather brogues

Seasonal suiting. Party perfect

Just as we'd expect we're seeing some nice seasonal suiting coming through, including tartan patterns and velvets, which are perfect for that Christmas party. Brogues finish the look as do a good high shine shoe. If it's a more formal affair don a bow tie, these are again very big this year and there is a good selection on offer at Marks & Spencer.

Patterned and textured knitwear

Knitwear continues to be textured and patterned rather than simple and plain. This adds interest and personality to a garment that, lets face it, could be a tad dull. Muted colours prevail in teals, moss greens, blues and reds. 

A welcome gin cocktail

David Gandys collection was on display

Luxury leather bags are perfect for a weekend away

Looking for a look for Christmas. M&S has it sorted

Tartan and bow ties. Superbly festive

Everyone needs a good bobble hat right?

Not just for dapper days. M&S offer a collection of casual togs too

Heritage style leather brogue boots. Great for winter walks

Line them up please waiter!

Beautiful blazers in traditional fabrics and paterns

Marks & Spencer continue to support British manufacture with their Best Of British collection using fine british tweeds and wools and we'll see some of this in stores and on line in the coming weeks. The blazers continue in a heritage theme with traditional pattern and fabric but in a more tailored modern fit, keeping things bang on trend.

Keeping out the cold with great accessories

Of course we also saw hats, scarves and coats but again these all feel a little more luxurious than others I've seen, particularly the 100% cashmere scarf which is a real must have, if only so you can feel its complete softness.

Roll necks are also big news and are a nice thin knit so that they can be worn under other garments without creating bulk. M&S are offering us roll necks in merino wool with added silk for a great feel.

The dog tooth wool coat over a basket weave sweater

A textured velvet blazer worn over the merino & silk roll neck

All set for that formal festive event

I hope you all keep warm and stylish this festive season, and with this collection from M&S in sumptuous fabrics I'm sure you will.

Find Marks & Spencer

      

THANKS FOR READING. COME BACK SOON!