This spring, we’re encouraging men to seek out their inner ‘maximalist’ style. Meaning: no strings attached/unapologetic sartorial fun. Here’s our short list of essential pieces to own:

1. The silk knit tie

If you’re like us and find yourself in a suit and tie during most days of the week, try adding a silk knit tie to casually piece together your outfits.

2. No show socks, or ‘sockettes’

Brands like Marcoliani make good quality ‘no show’ socks that offer good sweat protection from long hours of wearing shoes (we’ve all been there) whether at the office or at play, while adding a very cool sockless look. We carry them at the shop in a variety of colours – stop by to have a look at the collection.

3. Pocket squares

Pocket squares with a pop of colour add personality to even the most boring of outfits. The rule with pocket squares this spring is to not overthink it – like it then wear it. End of story. We currently carry some really fun handcrafted pocket squares by Monsieur Fox and Massimo Alba.

 

4. Statement Shades

When it comes to coordinating your shirt and jacket with your sunglasses, there are no rules. You’ve been waiting all winter for spring and it’s finally here – have some fun! Mirrored lenses, coloured lenses, statement frames… Anything goes, really. Our favourite? A pair of custom Oakley Frogskins that can be worn while walking to the office with a client, or, to the beach on R&R weekends.

 

5. White Casual Sport Coat

A white casual sport coat is an elegant piece EVERY man needs to own. We can’t reiterate that enough. It’s extremely versatile; great for casual brunches, short weekend trips to the cottage, and an excellent choice for more formal evenings where champagne is the de facto guest of honour. We recommend silk, linen, and hopsack for maximum comfort and style.

 

6. Blue Linen Pants

We all know that linen pants offer breathable and relaxed comfort, but what’s the best shade to own if you could only own one pair? Definitely blue. It goes with everything: from greens to yellows to reds to whites…. Make sure you choose the right shade of blue to match with your skin tone. Feel free to ask one of our stylists if you’re unsure – we’re always glad to help!

7. Stretch Jersey Sport Coat or Pants (Athleisure)

These will get you from 0 to 100—real quick (no pun intended). If you’re the type of man who prefers comfort over style—who isn’t—we’ve got the answer for you: Four-way stretch jersey. Yup, you read that right. In true Garrison style, we also carry a cashmere four-way stretch jersey – so soft, you’ll literally have strangers come up to you just to touch your jacket.

8. Bandana

You don’t have to be a member of a motorcycle gang to rock a bandana this season. It’s a great accessory for spring/summer which can be worn either on your head to keep your hair from fighting with the wind, or, around your neck with a collarless shirt for a no non-sense-effortless-cool look.

***Side note: What are the colours of the season?***

Green has really caught our eye as the colour of the season. There are so many great shades of green which we think really brings out the best in a man. We have a hard time narrowing it down to just one shade… What’s your favourite shade of green?

Other colours on our radar include turquoise, electric blue, orange, and orchid (purple). If you’re more of a minimalist and prefer subtle neutral tones, a simple black and white outfit can easily take you from editorial to street style maven.