Spring Four Ways

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We saw it on the runway last summer when major fashion brands debuted their Spring/Summer 2026 collections. Stripes are in. Vertical, horizontal, diagonal, thin and wide. When styling stripes, keep the rest of the outfit grounded with solid colours. Off the runway, try a striped dress shirt with European-style dress pants. I love how these Banana Republic dress pants are a bit high-waisted, and the linen–merino blend gives you the breathability of linen without wrinkling as easily. For a more casual look, opt for a retro pinstripe. This Simon’s look is a great example.

Dust off your tie, because it’s the spring of the casual tie. Worn as an accessory rather than the key piece of a full suit-and-tie look, you can easily pair a tie with jeans, a leather jacket, or under a cardigan. The more retro the better.

If you’re going to try one new style trend this spring, add some colour to your wardrobe. Listen, I like earth tones as much as the next person, but spring calls for colour, and this year, there are some good ones. If you’re sick of me talking about butter yellow, trade in the navy for this cobalt blue or swap forest green for a brighter, punchier green.

Last year, the quarter zip was all the rage; this spring, I’m seeing the zipper cardigan everywhere. Similar to the quarter zip, you can style it down with a simple t-shirt underneath, or dress it up with a shirt and tie. The zipper cardigan is better for layering since you can wear it fully open, which is what I’d recommend. This BOSS merino wool cardigan feels amazing on, and this Massimo Dutti version in grey is a great option at almost a third of the price.

The pictures of this jacket don’t do it justice. I picked up the Paul & Shark Typhoon Platinum Jacket for a client, and once he tried it on, it was almost impossible to put down. The fabric is relaxed and comfortable without looking saggy. At just over $1,200, it feels luxurious but not so precious that you’ll be afraid to actually wear it. I love the colours; they’ll work with almost anything. It strikes that perfect balance between formal and casual. And the quality? Paul & Shark doesn’t miss. They’re known for making pieces that last for years.

Aimé Leon Dore (ALD) just released its Spring/Summer collection. I would describe ALD pieces as special enough to earn a second look, but not so loud that it feels like you’re screaming for attention. Founded in March 2014 by Teddy Santis, the Queens, NY brand is known for its blend of streetwear style and high fashion. The prices are not quite luxury, but you’re looking at somewhere between $400-$1,500 for a sweater. Their spring collection encompasses a lot of the trends we’re seeing in stores - bold colours, stripes, and a relaxed fit. Some standouts are this striped suit, this beige cardigan, and this perfect spring wedding blazer. Browse through the lookbook for inspiration. The styling is impeccable.

Sporting Life is having a winter flash sale for three days (ends March 4th). Up to 60% off and free shipping.

Up to 40% off select items at Banana Republic. I love this mustard merino crew neck, which is an extra 20% off.

Get up to 60% off select items at Massimo Dutti, including this maroon ribbed sweater.

“I need to get a new pair of dressier shoes. Should I get black or brown?” 

Though black seems like the obvious choice, brown works with more outfits, specifically, a tan leather brown like this. Black pairs well with black and grey, but when you think about most business casual outfits - navy pants, dark denim, beige or cream chinos - brown shoes, boots, or loafers are usually the better option.

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