FASH-ON WITH XXL JJDP – 트렌디 TRENCH :: TRENDY트렌치

SHOT by BRIAN KLEIN
Shot on location TTEUKSEOM RESORT – HAN RIVER SEOUL

“Go with the flow” is my general motto in life and fashion, but as we know, fashion is dictated by season and it is time to switch modes. So embrace Mother Nature’s will and her colors around you to make it work. Be inspired by the turning leaves and subtle beiges of late fall.

For some reason this year, fall drew itself out longer and has extended way into late October, allowing us to have some great extra time to enjoy the splendor of nature in our city and province. However, for those taking a trip to Seoul, as the days get shorter, I would advise making a stopover at the Han River. Once there, you can check out some of the many great bridges that add interest to the capital city. And with about 27 crossings in total on the river, it is easy to enjoy a relaxing afternoon out. Similarly at night, the reflection on the water is particularly amazing. But for this edition, I did a late afternoon sunset visit to Ttukseom Resort (뚝섬 리조트) and it was nothing less than golden magic. You might also be able to catch the last of the reeds, which is part of the majesty of the Korean fall with people travelling far and wide to take pictures amongst the silver-feathered blades.

Taking a cue from nature, trenches are the way to go as they are both universal and will never go out of style. Working for both male and female closets, you do not even need to think about whether this is the correct style item for you. It is a no brainer: everyone looks good in a trench. So if you do not already own one, take this time to invest, because you will have this item in your closet for a lifetime.

Last month, Burberry launched its Art of the Trench campaign worldwide and it has been very successful at introducing the brand and the iconic look to Korea. I bought mine five years ago and I still love it and it works well for all seasons. Drape it over your shoulders, wear as an overcoat, whatever; trench equals instant class.

In recent years, there have been some variations to the classic design and designers have started playing around with cut, shape and color, making it even more trendy. But how you wear it is most important and I would suggest that you use the trench as the main focal point of your outfit, as it is less work and less fuss. Choose a basic dark neutral base in jeans, trousers and shirt/ cardigan combo and let the trench do its work.

In the main style featured this month, my look keeps the length and style of the traditional coat, although the shoulders have been modified. This is a sleeveless version and is worn with a cardigan and it is one of my best spring and fall looks. There are only two ways to properly wear the coat. One is unbuttoned with the belt tied at the back or fully buttoned up with belt tied. Know this.

If you are opting for a more casual look, there is a modified jacket trench, which keeps the traditional finishes of the trench but is a bit slicker. The lapels, buttons and buckles are still all there but this is a more street take on the look. I have shown it here in a short black trench jacket, which has been dressed up with a simple black and white polka-dot scarf to keep your neck nice and toasty in the chilly breeze. As with the longer trench, a basic dark base of jeans and shirt also shows off this look. Finish it all off with a crumpled hat for a nostalgic twist. Go for it.

Finally, caring for these items is pretty easy: dry clean them. The usual cost for a trench is about 5,000 won and only needs a clean once or twice per season. Never try to wash it yourself. That is all!

Trend away,

peace,

xxl

jjdp