That Dapper Chap: velvet

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.