Style Advice | Carl Magazine from CareofCarl.com

5 linen blazers perfect for festive occasions

Linen is a natural material with a long-standing tradition in menswear. Its qualities come into their own particularly during the warmer months of the year – airy, lightweight, and with a character that evolves and matures over time. It is difficult to speak about linen blazers without mentioning Italy – both as a producer and as a source of style inspiration. The relaxed elegance that defines Italian fashion, often described by the word sprezzatura, is about the art of appearing effortlessly well-dressed. It is a deliberate nonchalance that demands precision: rolled-up sleeves, a slightly wrinkled linen blazer, sunglasses casually tucked into the breast pocket.

In this article, we highlight five different linen blazers.

Beige Linen Blazer

A beige linen blazer is a natural choice for all of summer’s occasions, whether you are attending a wedding or other festive gatherings. Easy to wear and effortless to pair with both jeans and matching linen trousers, it remains timeless in its light, natural tone.

Blue Linen Blazer

A navy linen blazer from Italy is classic, cool, and always appropriate – the blue linen blazer pairs just as effortlessly with chinos as it does with jeans. A reliable choice for a well-dressed yet relaxed look.

Boglioli K Jacket Linen Blazer Navy

Brown Linen Blazer

The brown linen blazer offers a warm and sophisticated impression. An excellent choice for those who wish to maintain a sense of style while adding a bit more depth to the colour palette.

Green Linen Blazer

A muted green linen blazer strikes a fine balance between the classic and an unexpected touch of colour. It pairs especially well with beige, white, and brown for a harmonious overall look.

Polo Ralph Lauren Linen Sportcoat Armadillo

Double Breasted Linen Blazer

The double-breasted white or beige blazer evokes thoughts of the Riviera, aperitivo, and timeless elegance. Perfect for the more festive occasions of summer – especially when paired with light linen trousers and a casually unbuttoned shirt.

Patterned Blazer

For those who wish to stand out without compromising on elegance, a patterned linen blazer is the right choice. Tone-on-tone checks or subtle textures add depth and character to the overall look.

Drake's MKI Linen Madras Games Blazer Brown/Green

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2025-05-10 @ 09:00:00

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How to dress for a wedding

Regardless of the weather, we can start by stating that the dress code stated on the invitation is what applies. If it states a dark suit and it happens to be 30+ degrees on the same day, unfortunately you have to accept it and remain stoic in front of the newlywed couple. After all, it is their special day and on we shall celebrate on their terms.

Below we have divided the article according to the most common dress codes and degrees of formality. We have also provided some thoughts on how you can adapt the dress to your taste and the current season.

Discover our wedding section for more inspirational reading.

Dark suit

The dark suit is the classic attire of choice for a wedding, perfect for both day and night. As a guest, you do not have to think too much about your choice of clothing. The choice is simple, either a dark blue or dark grey suit together with a white or blue shirt and tie. Vary between a pair of brown or black leather shoes. For a more formal feel, a black suit is recommended. Allow accessories such as a tie, handkerchief, watch, and cufflinks to add a personal touch.

Business casual

The business casual dress code means a more relaxed suit, this can open the door for multiple interpretations. Above all, you can experiment with the colours when compared with other dress codes. Grey, light blue, beige or maybe green. During the summer months, it is a good tip to choose a slightly more colourful outfit, while during the winter it is often preferred to choose earthy colours. A pleasant alternative for hot summer days is a light cotton or linen suit, i.e. in material that is cooling.

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Smart casual

The smart casual dress code gives you the best chance to add a personal touch. You are relatively free to choose between colours and materials. Either you can opt for a classic combination with a blue blazer and a pair of khaki-coloured chinos or a summer-inspired outfit with bright colours and linen material. Below, we've gone for a classic combination of a blazer and a pair of jeans.

Single Breasted Linen Blend Twill Blazer Beige

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Black tie

It is said that for a major party, a stylish outfit is required, although the black tie dress code is considered more common in the US than in Europe. Black tie is relatively simple in its components. You can wear a midnight blue or black dinner suit with a dress shirt, which has a reinforced or pleated chest. Pair this with a velvet or silk bow tie, pocket square and a pair of patent leather shoes. Perhaps wear a cummerbund in the same tone as the tuxedo or a waistcoat and a pair of suspenders. The outfit’s freedom of interpretation is not that great, choose between a single or double-breasted jacket, black shoes in leather or patent leather and a belt or waistcoat. Instead, let the style and your personal touches do the talking.

2025-05-08 @ 09:00:00

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Summer favourite: The Linen Trousers

When the sun is high and the days grow longer, few garments feel as natural as a pair of linen trousers. The fabric itself – linen – is a natural fibre with impressive qualities: it breathes, regulates body temperature, and only gets softer over time. But linen trousers are not only practical and comfortable, they also carry a relaxed elegance that makes them suitable for both casual and more dressed-up occasions.

Linen trousers are a versatile staple in the summer wardrobe. They work just as well with a simple t-shirt and sandals as they do with a shirt and loafers. in this way, the garment bridges casual and refined – perfect for holidays, summer parties, or office hours during the warm months. Thanks to linen's natural crinkled texture and matte surface, the trousers convey a lively yet sophisticated appearance.

Billie Linen Drawstring Trousers Navy Blue

Aden Regular Fit Linen Trousers Croc Green

Aden Regular Fit Linen Trousers Navy Blue

To Linen Trousers

Choose a straight-cut model in light shades like beige, light grey, or olive green for a timeless and easy-to-match piece. Those seeking something more distinctive might opt for a darker hue, or why not a pair with a drawstring for an even more relaxed silhouette. Pair with a linen blazer for a full linen ensemble – a classic choice suitable for weddings and all the season's festivities.

A pair of good quality linen trousers will also last for many seasons, and with proper care, they age gracefully. in short: linen trousers are a garment that deserves a permanent place in every man's wardrobe.

How to Style Linen Trousers

2025-05-06 @ 11:48:42

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Four Ways to Lace Your Shoes

A good introduction is to note that different types of shoes often require different types of lacing to look their absolute best. The lacing can actually, like so many other style details, be a subtle way to enhance or tone down the formality of your style. Some ways to lace a shoe visually harmonise better with the shoe model and design than others.

Many shoes, dress shoes in particular, are often come with what one could call "factory lacing". It is a way of lacing shoes that is quick to complete in production and looks good on shoes in the box, but, as a matter of fact, it can be quite terrible for your shoes if kept when you wear your precious new footwear. The asymmetric zig-zag nature of this lacing will make the left and the right side of your shoe pull in different directions when tightened, and perhaps even cause deformation to the upper of your shoes. We therefore strongly advise you to re-lace your shoes after purchasing them, using one of the ways suggested below.

Like in many other areas of style and fashion, there is a very keen group of enthusiasts out there with a passion for premium men's shoes. A group of connoisseurs with a profound, niche knowledge of various shoe-related topics. Lacing is often a very polemic debate among these people. If you feel you are one of these shoe gurus, we humbly ask for your patience and understanding of the ways we choose to refer to these ways to lace shoes presented below. There is most likely more than one name for each method.

We divide the lacing-methods below into two main categories: Horizontal and crossed lacings. Altogether, these four methods are some of the most stylish, relevant and useful lacing techniques we can think of. Some of the methods are more suitable for some shoe models than others, due to the nature of how easy it is to tie once laced and how much of the shoe laces the technique requires.

Shoes with "open lacing", i.e. Derbies and most sneakers, often benefit from ways to lace the shoes that don't cause the shoelace to zig-zag across the bottom face of the lacing. Lacing methods that "hide" the transitions of the shoe lace on the bottom face create a cleaner looking lacing, but can sometimes be a bit cumbersome to tighten.

If you enjoy varying the lacing of your shoes, there are endless variations to be found online. We feel the four options below are a good starting point, being functional, stylish and relevant.

Boston Twostep

The lacing method called "Boston Twostep" creates a visually appealing impression effect on the upper of your shoe. It is also easy to tighten when you tie your shoes. This lacing method results in a fairly messy bottom face of the lacing, which is why it is most suitable for shoes like Oxfords where the left and the right parts of the upper's lacing meet in the middle under your shoe laces, in what we like to call "closed lacing".

Hidden Horizontal Lacing

Hidden horizontal lacing, also referred to as "horizontal bar-lacing", is a visually clean and minimal way to lace your shoes that also generates a minimal amount of excess lacing between the upper and the tongue. It is particularly suitable for shoes like Derbies and sneakers with a bit of space between the left and right lacing parts of the upper. With these lacing methods, the tucking away of the transition lacing can also make it somewhat harder to tighten.

Classic Lacing

The "classic lacing" is suitable for all types of shoes. It is easy and practical when it comes to tightening the shoe laces, hence it becomes the lacing of choice for shoes with a long lacing like sneakers and boots of various kinds.

Bow-Tie Lacing

The so called "Bow-tie lacing" is another method that is suitable for shoes with both open and closed lacing. Visually, this lacing technique in discrete X-formations that are particularly appealing on minimal upper designs like the closed-laced whole-cut Oxfords below. The minimal aesthetics of the lacing, harmonise with the uncluttered nature of the shoe design itself. A very clear example of how visual harmony is a cornerstone of good style.

2025-05-03 @ 09:00:00

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Lookbook: Summer Festivities

Summer brings moments to remember – weddings, graduations, and festive gatherings where style is just as important as the occasion itself. A well-tailored suit, the right pair of shoes, and carefully selected accessories create a look that is both sophisticated and personal.

In our latest capsule collection Festive, we present the pieces to wear for every summer celebration – formalwear designed for warm-weather elegance. The selection includes suits in airy fabrics such as linen and lightweight wool, offered in classic navy, refined neutrals, and seasonal tones.

Each piece is chosen with care, blending modern tailoring with enduring quality and attention to detail. Whether you are the groom, the graduate, or a distinguished guest – our collection ensures a timeless look that feels just right for every occasion this summer.

Linen Suit

Brown Pinstriped Suit

Classic Blue

Doublebreasted and summery

2025-04-29 @ 09:00:00

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5 Selected Spring Essentials from Pre-Owned

When we think of spring, we think of light, fresh colours and a wardrobe that reflects a more sustainable lifestyle. These classic and timeless favourites are more than just seasonal highlights – they are garments made to stand the test of time, keeping you both stylish and comfortable.

Each piece in the Pre-Owned selection is unique and available in only one copy, which means items may sell out quickly. We therefore reserve the right that some of the items below may no longer be available – but we are always happy to help you find similar alternatives. Discover the full Pre-Owned department here.

Here are our five selected pieces:

Blazer

Linen trousers

Oxford Shirt

Cashmere pullover

Derbys

More New Arrivals from Pre-Owned:

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2025-04-05 @ 09:00:00

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The Pre-Owned Garment to Invest In: The Blazer

Investing in a Pre-Owned or vintage blazer is both a style-conscious and sustainable choice. A blazer in high-quality wool or cashmere can be a well-invested find while carrying a history and a unique expression that is not always found in modern garments. Below, we share our best tips on what to look for.

Why Invest in a Pre-Owned or Vintage Blazer?

✔ You can get a lot of quality for your money: A new blazer of the same craftsmanship and material is often significantly more expensive.

✔ It is unique: A reused blazer carries history, and no one else has exactly the same one – you get a personal style with character. A vintage blazer may also feature style markers that are hard to find in newly produced garments – details like shoulder pads, stitching, and fit are not made in the same way today as they were 10, 20, or 30 years ago. The natural patina that develops also adds personality – a well-worn blazer with a slightly worn surface can make the garment even more charming.

✔ A chance to experiment: A blazer is a great entry point for those who may not be used to wearing one, or for those who want to try out a completely new model or colour – perfect if you want to test an unusual blazer without spending a fortune.

✔ A timeless choice: A well-tailored vintage blazer has a classic silhouette that stands the test of time. Instead of following rapidly changing trends, you get a garment with character and history that can be worn year after year without feeling outdated.

✔ Ger nytt liv åt ett plagg: Att välja en pre-owned kavaj innebär att ge nytt liv åt ett plagg istället för att bidra till nyproduktion. Det är ett hållbart alternativ som minskar resursförbrukning och textilavfall, samtidigt som det ofta innebär bättre hantverk och material än många nyproducerade plagg.

What Should You Look For?

Seasonal Blazers: Seasonal blazers are perfect to look for: tweed blazers, flannel blazers, linen blazers, or a tuxedo jacket that is usually worn infrequently or is seasonally dependent. This makes it more worthwhile to invest in a Pre-Owned or vintage blazer rather than a new one, which you might otherwise feel guilty about not using frequently and year-round. A cashmere blazer, for example, can cost half the price, making it a great deal.

Classic Icons and Specific Models: Some classic icons to look for include the Bogliogi K Jacket, Caruso, Gabo Napoli, Canali, Corneliani, and Lardini. If you like a well-tailored look, it may be worth looking for a blazer with wider lapels, a tapered waist, and a slightly longer cut, not only because they are classic but also because they are currently stylish. If you want a more casual blazer, look for an unstructured blazer in cotton, for example. Or why not a knitted blazer that can be worn as both a cardigan and a blazer? It is an easy step into wearing blazers.

What Should You Consider Regarding Material and Quality?

Degree of Formality: Consider the level of formality you desire when choosing a blazer – a light, unstructured linen blazer may not be the right choice for a wedding with a black-tie dress code.

Material and Structure: Also, look at the material composition – do you want a fully lined, half-lined, unstructured, or more structured blazer? This affects both comfort and style.

Condition: Examine the condition – at Care of Carl Pre-Owned we always check the collar, armpits, and pockets extra carefully. Are there signs of wear, stains, or holes? has the nap worn off on a flannel blazer (or does it just add a nice patina)?

When you buy a Pre-Owned blazer from us, we have checked its condition before selling it.We never sell damaged garments, though signs of use and natural patina may be present.

How Should You Think About Fit and Size?

Personal Preferences: Just as when buying a new blazer, go with what you like. Wide or narrow lapels? A slim, tailored waist or a straighter fit? A double-breasted blazer can, for example, create a nice silhouette on a slimmer body type, while a single-breasted one gives the impression of a nrrower figure. But in the end, it is about your personal style and needs. Do you prefer British or Italian tailoring? British tailoring is often more structured, while Italian is more relaxed and casual. Do you want a discreet and classic colour like grey or blue – or a more eye-catching colour or pattern?

Length: The length of the blazer matters – today's blazers are often shorter, which may be due to both a trend-driven design choice and cost considerations in production. However, a longer blazer is more classic and creates a stylish silhouette. A traditional rule of thumb is that the blazer should cover the seat.

Blazer Measurements: Check the measurements. Just because a blazer is a size 50 does not mean it has a standard fit when bought second-hand. Vintage blazers are often tailored to the previous owner. We measure all garments when they come in, so check the size chart to find the right fit!

Discover Pre-Owned Items Below

Till Pre-Owned

Good luck with your Pre-Owned blazer purchase!

2025-04-01 @ 09:00:00

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The Classic: The Field Jacket

One of the most common jackets in men's fashion is the field jacket - a garment that, with its functional design and timeless aesthetic, has remained a favorite for decades. With its many pockets, military roots and casual yet stylish appearance, it is an obvious choice for those who want to dress both practically and simply.

From the Military to the Fashion World

The field jacket has its origins in the military and was originally developed to provide soldiers with a practical and durable garment for use in the field. One of the most well-known models is the M-65 jacket, introduced by the U.S. Army in the 1960s. It replaced earlier versions like the M-43 and M-51 and was designed to withstand varying weather conditions with its sturdy cotton fabric and hidden hood.

After its military service, the jacket—like so many other garments—made its way into civilian fashion. During the 1970s, it became a symbol of rebellious style, worn by everyone from activists to Hollywood stars.

A Modern Classic

Today, the field jacket is as relevant as ever, earning a well-deserved place in nearly every man’s wardrobe. Its combination of functionality and aesthetics makes it an excellent choice for both casual outings and commuting to the office. It can be worn casually over a T-shirt and jeans or elevated to a more sophisticated level with a shirt and chinos.
Brands such as Barbour, Filson, and Aspesi have all put their own stamp on the field jacket, giving it a modern touch while preserving its classic silhouette. With its ability to adapt to different styles and occasions, the field jacket remains a timeless investment that endures season after season.

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2025-03-25 @ 09:00:00

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The Scarf as an Accessory – The Detail that Elevates Your Outfit

Many have likely experienced the feeling of an outfit being almost perfect—well-thought-out, well-matched, and stylish—yet still missing something. Sometimes, it is precisely this polished and deliberate look that makes the overall impression feel predictable. A small scarf tied around the neck is an excellent way to break up an outfit that is too perfectly coordinated while also adding contrast through color and shape to an otherwise sleek but monochrome ensemble.

Historically, the scarf has served as a functional accessory, used to absorb sweat, provide protection from the sun, or offer warmth. However, over time it has evolved into an elegant and subtle style element. During the 20th century, fashion houses cemented the scarf as a definitive style statement in the world of fashion.

A silk scarf, or one made from another refined material, with an interesting pattern can add a more exclusive and sophisticated touch. You can wear it inside the collar of either a shirt, or a knitted polo to achieve that elegant feel. In the example above, the scarf enhances the outfit and creates an entirely different impression. Without the scarf, the model is simply wearing jeans and a polo. With the scarf, the combination suddenly takes on a personal and playful character.

Of course, there are many different types of scarves, made from various materials and in different shapes. Today, the bandana scarf and various silk scarf styles are likely the most commonly used. The bandana scarf, or pocket square, is a more relaxed option that can easily be tied around the neck and worn over a T-shirt or with a denim shirt to add both color and pattern.

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2025-03-22 @ 09:00:00

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The Timeless Preppy Icon: The Rugby Shirt

With the Six Nations Championship just over, the eyes of the sporting world turned to the clashes on the rugby pitch. But for those with a keen eye for style, it is perhaps not the sport itself that captivates when discussing the rugby shirt—but rather the garment, which is now proudly worn far beyond the field. With its sturdy construction, distinctive stripes and contrasting white collar, it has become an icon of preppy fashion and an essential part of the relaxed yet polished wardrobe, particularly within the Ivy League aesthetic.

From the Rugby Pitch to Preppy Fashion

The history of the rugby shirt dates back to the early days of the sport, where its functional design played a crucial role. Originally, the shirts featured horizontal stripes – known as hoops – typicaly consisting of five or six broad bands in the teams' unique colours. These distinctive patterns made it easy to differentiate between teams and reinforced a sense of unity among players.

In the 1950s, the rugby shirt began making its way beyond the pitch and into everyday fashion. At British universities, it became a favourite among students who wanted to display their school spirit outside the sports arena. Meanwhile, Ivy League students in the United States embraced the garment, and it soon became a natural part of the preppy uniform – often paired with chinos, loafers, and a Barbour jacket on cooler days.

With its sporting heritage and rugged yet elegant design, it embodies the quintessential preppy attitude: being stylish without appearing overly effortful or formal.

A Timeless Preppy Icon

Today, the rugby shirt is as relevant as ever. Brands such as Ralph Lauren, Gant and Rowing Blazers have all celebrated its heritage and modernised it for a new generation of style-conscious men. Whether worn for a spring walk in the city, a weekend in the countryside or to cheer on a favourite team in the Six Nations, the rugby shirt remains an icon – a symbol of tradition, sport and a garment that stands the test of time.