Britain is the home to some of the world’s most well-known, innovative brands. British men’s fashion is characterised by sharp silhouettes, well-tailored clothing and impeccable style. Classic staples, hard-wearing essentials, tweed, tailoring, and tartan together make up elements of ensembles that encapsulate quintessential British fashion.
Since Britain is home to Savile Row, known for well-cut bespoke suits, it comes as no surprise that suits are a mainstay in a British gentlemen’s wardrobe. Suitable for work, weddings, a day at the races, travel, and formal evenings, a well-made suit can last for decades. Tall and slim men can add a waistcoat without bulking up their look; heavier figures can keep it simple and pick a wider trouser leg. A Vivienne Westwood suit can add just the right bit of James Bond flair to your wardrobe.
Outerwear is also key to British style. Fred Perry’s navy tipped sweatshirt or Oliver Spencer’s navy bomber are perfect for a casual lunch with friends. For a more rugged look, suitable for a motorbike ride through the country, pick Hackett’s navy moto jacket. If you are facing rough weather then opt for an iconic Barbour wax cotton jacket. 
To put together a simple, casual, yet elegant outfit, take a cue from the 1960s classic attire, known as Mod. Start with a pair of jeans – Mods opted for dark blue, but you can update the look and pick this London Blue Five-Pocket pair by Hackett. Add a polo shirt! For a more classic look, try the Ted Baker Herringbone Navy Polo T-shirt or the Alexander McQueen Black Swallow Polo T-shirt. If you prefer bright colours, the Barbour Royal Blue Twin Tipped Collar Polo T-shirt and the Red China Polo T-shirt by Hackett make for a good match. Add a cashmere scarf and a tailored jacket to complete the look.
Read more about the iconic history of polo t-shirts here.
For a country classic look, perfect for a day of riding through the countryside, start off with a checked shirt such as the Red Chequered Shirt by Oliver Spencer or the Navy Modern Checked Shirt by Ben Sherman. Accessorise your look with a tie and tan brogues or complete your look with tan Chinos by Ben Sherman.
To rock a casual outfit inspired by The Beatles, wear a simple round-neck cotton t-shirt like a Grey Sleeve Print T-Shirt by Fred Perry. Jeans are an absolute must, so add a funky red pair from Hackett London. Layer with a tailored jacket & throw on a flat cap (extra points if it’s tweed!).
And finally, remember this: while impeccable tailoring and sleek silhouettes are important, British fashion designers have always had a flair for the eccentric and flamboyant. Add a touch of quirkiness with a fun Vivienne Westwood Navy Crown Printed Sweatshirt or a pop of colour with Ted Baker coral shorts to incorporate some of their famous eccentricity and make yourself stand out in the Queen’s country.
Put together your very own British ensemble from The Collective’s wide range of brands for every occasion. Indulge yourself in iconic British men’s fashion.
