One of my personal favourite periods of A&F style had to be the era of pure Ivy League influenced clothes – specifically the 2011/2012 Elements of Ivy collection. Before double denim, unbuttoned shirts and destruction were "in", A&F pushed a look which probably wasn't
popular per se, but it sure was nice. It was luxurious. It was timeless. And it still remains my favourite period of A&F clothing ever.
Sadly, it would appear in the most recent looks that any hint of preppiness and Ivy League has been almost eradicated from A&F's clothing. But, do not fear. The Elements of Ivy look is still there, and it's back almost better than ever – it's just a little harder to spot in amongst a lot of the new merchandise. So, with that in mind here are a few outfit ideas to try if you're looking to throwback to the days of near-luxury A&F. Even if you're a trendy, fashion following A&F fan who goes nuts for neon colours and light wash denim, just step back and consider trying one or two of the following looks this season...you may be surprised just how amazing the classics are.
That's all for now. Speak soon guys!
Dom
Look 1
The Latham Pond Shawl sweater is simply one of the best items in the new collection, and it fits in everywhere. Team it here with a bright red windbreaker to evoke the spirit of sailing.
Look 2
Once again, the Latham Pond sweater is a winner teamed with a classic pink shirt and skinny chinos. To make yourself
truly Ivy, add Sperry Topsiders in classic brown. These beauties were briefly featured in Spring Preview 2012 looks and it's a great shame they never came back – they are truly the real world, wearable equivalent to flip flops.
Look 3
A&F's new pocket tees are absolutely fantastic. Subtle, small moose logos are in my opinion infinitely better than the bigger ones. In this look, nautical stripes teamed with the shirt and prep fit shorts make for a distinctly classic, East Coast look. Add a few bracelets of your choice to top everything off.
Look 4
Athletic influence comes into play here, with the bright red fleece shorts teamed with the crisp white polo. This is heavily based on the original
Privileged Athletic collection A&F pushed in early 2012. Add the new pullover windbreaker for a slightly sporty edge.
Look 5
This look is definitely for the brave – although it shouldn't really be. The new
Flagstaff Mountain tees are pure
Ivy, and the navy one looks great teamed with an unbuttoned classic shirt of your choice. The braided leather belt adds a punch to the best bit of all – light pink chinos. Seriously, just try them – you will love them. If you've ever needed a way to visually show how confident you are, then this is most certainly it.
Look 6
Nothing quite says "I'm an incredibly wealthy East Coast boy on vacation at our family home in Cape Cod and I'm now heading down to Hyannis harbour to meet Muffy at the Yacht" like wearing swimming shorts with a button up shirt. Just try it – you'll see how elitist you suddenly feel. Stereotypes aside, the main thing here is that fantastic half zip hoodie – it's pure old school A&F.
Look 7
This one was directly inspired by a mid 2011 look. There's just something awesome about the combination of the sweatshirt with the chinos – the shirt underneath just tops it off. Having everything look so worn in and rugged without looking
scruffy is a crucial part of this look. Think of it as Ivy League with messed up hair...
Look 8
Anyone can team a polo with shorts when it gets slightly warmer, but only a
real man has the guts to take things a step further by adding a cardigan to the outfit. A&F's new lightweight jersey cardigans are perfect for those in-between days when a hoodie is a bit too much and no outer layer is a bit too chilly.
Look 9
The new
Algonquin hoodie is a real throwback to classic rowing inspired varsity sweatshirts. Add a gingham checked shirt with the only jeans that will do – selvedge dark wash skinny jeans. A white cloth belt adds a pretty unique touch that breaks up the dark colours on the top and bottom.
Look 10
And finally...I think this look pretty much speaks for itself. Few will have the guts to even try this, but if you can pull this off...I salute you!
