Stripes, Plaid, & Graphics: Small Updates for Spring Work Style

A sophisticated suit for an important meeting doesn’t have to be solid. The subtle charcoal plaid pattern in Polo Ralph Lauren’s Italian wool is rich and striking. And even though it is a plaid, it can be accessorized as if it were a solid, since it is so understated. A solid white or blue shirt looks great, but don’t be afraid to wear a blue stripe or larger scale plaid shirt. Add a dark tie and you will be the best dressed gent at the meeting.

A blue check sport coat is a must-have for any gent in the warmer months, especially when its done in Brooks Brothers’ ultra lightweight wool. And they give it a fresh update by designing it with a soft burgundy overlay plaid to make it an ideal work-ready office pattern. And it’s a pattern that can be worn with both solid and pattern shirts. The key is to balance the pattern of the coat with the shirt. Since the coat’s pattern is small, a shirt with lots of solid color in the pattern looks current and appropriate. It’s a jacket that works with jeans or khaki’s, yet can be dressed up with charcoal wool pants to have you ready for any client meeting with confidence. This jacket is in Brooks Brothers’ Fitzgerald model, which is modern with narrower lapels and a shorter length. It is a great fit for classic gents looking for a bit of a modern update.

A blue check shirt is a staple in every gents wardrobe for its endless versatility. Hugo Boss’ darker blue version with a simple white windowpane check looks fresh and updated. You can pair it with everything in your wardrobe, from a navy blazer and tie to a charcoal grey suit and no tie, letting the shirt stand on its own. And, it’s not so delicate that it can’t be worn on its own, so pair it with jeans or khaki’s on a more casual day. The fit is a bit trimmer than a classic fit that looks updated and well-suited for most gents.

This pop of orange plaid is just fantastic and will make any grey, navy, tan or olive suit warm weather appropriate. To keep with the more casual feel of the season, you can even wear it without a tie. Ledbury’s classic fit and fine quality also give you the option to wear this button up more casually, with jeans and khaki colored pants.

For a casual office day, and that might be everyday for some, a comfortable cotton sweater with twill pants or jeans is all you need. This one from Vineyard Vines is a nice update with its blue stripe and quarter-zip neck that shows off a pattern shirt or simple white t-shirt. The classic fit is easy for all gents – you’ll even look forward to throwing it on with shorts on a cooler, summer evening.

If this Peter Millar doesn’t say summer to you, we don’t know what does. And we are big fans. The classic fit and cotton lisle knit has a polished look, ideal for any casual office. Wear it with twill flat fronts or jeans in any color – from neutral twills to any denim wash. A casual feeling lace up shoe completes the outfit.

It simply doesn’t get any better than this faded red check silk tie from Psycho Bunny (except for maybe the navy version that can be purchased through the ‘shop it’ button, as well). Ginghams are prominent this season, and a pop of it in your tie is the perfect way to update your solid white or blue shirt and tan or grey sport coat. For an alternative work look, replace the jacket with a cotton cardigan or pullover sweater – so smart looking.

How about a little timeless color blocking pattern in your workbag? It’s an easy way to update your look, and there’s no disputing the functionality of this blue/black Timbuk2 messenger. The Cordura nylon shell is lightweight and nearly indestructible, so you’ll wear it well past this season. Its padded laptop compartment, exterior zip and slip pocket, and 2 ways to carry it (top handle and an adjustable shoulder strap) make it an easy choice.