Peter Christian Daily Telegraph Dress Sense by Peter Christian

In association with Peter Christian

Dress sense

Summer travel means that we can face dramatic temperature changes within hours. Nicholas Alderton guides the well-prepared gent in packing for all climes A Pythonesque handkerchief on the head and rolledup shirtsleeves might have passed as a gent’s holiday wardrobe not all that long ago. Now, of course, our horizons have broadened and, as well as taking more pride in our appearance, the world has become a smaller place. Smart global travel necessitates lighter weights and easy care. Some have holiday packing down to a fine art, but many of us know the perils of packing too much (especially with airline weight restrictions) or too little – when holidaying in these isles and the mercury unexpectedly drops. There are also formalities to be observed: will the hotel have a dress code in the evenings? Will shorts be acceptable at lunch? My experience tells me that a half-lined cotton jacket comes top of the list of essentials. Light and breathable, with plenty of practical pockets, it folds down neatly and at the flick of a silk pocket square can be smart enough for formal occasions. Linen – in shirts, trousers or suits – is one of those rare fabrics that can look elegant even when slightly crumpled, keeping you cool when all around you are losing theirs. I always take a hat: not only does it cut an extra dash, but it keeps the midday sun off the gentleman traveller’s head and can act as an emergency bucket when you reach that oasis. Use my list of travel must-haves from gentlemen’s outfitters Peter Christian to take the stress out of packing your bags. Order promptly, pack in advance and reward yourself with a Club Class G&T…

1 1

A Panama tale unfolds A colonial classic, the folding Panama, made from genuine paja toquilla straw, is the trademark of the English gent abroad, or indeed at the village fête. Fold along the crease and roll up for packing… tug it out of your case on arrival and it pops back into shape — genius! Available in hat sizes 56cm-61cm. Order (MH29) for £55. Visit peterchristian. co.uk/tph or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT250.

Stay cool and collect the admiring glances Our Man in Havana wore one, and so should you. A classic linen suit passes muster at both the captain’s table and the vicarage tea party. It also looks cool slightly crumpled with a battered Panama hat and a mojito tucked away in a quiet corner of the Bodeguita del Medio. Available in natural or navy. Jacket chest sizes

nor stirred. Available in stone and sage in chest sizes 36in-56in; short, regular or long fitting. Order (MJ39) for £75 or two for £140. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/tcj or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT250.

Generously cut from crisp 100 per cent cotton and smart enough to greet the maid when you have overslept. Available in navy check or blue stripe in sizes S-4XL. Order (MP15) for £30 or two for £50. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/tsp or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT250.

We must not think of the things we could do with, but only of the things that we can’t do without

These stripes are stars There are shorts… and then there are shorts. I raise a disdainful eyebrow at those baggy sacks with leg pockets, and ghastly three-quarter length clamdiggers that make a chap look like an overgrown toddler. Peter Christian’s striped shorts are tailored, with a discreet expandable waistband and a modest

Jerome K Jerome Three Men in a Boat

drawstring waist, two side and two hip pockets and quick drying fabric. Available in blue turtle in sizes M-2XL. Order (MA174) for £60. Visit peterchristian. co.uk/trs or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT250.

A half-lined cotton jacket is an essential travel companion, especially when it features buttondown pockets to keep your passport and wallet secure. The Peter Christian Correspondent Jacket is a global traveller that ensures you arrive fresh, sharp and ready to take on the world. Dress down with a silk scarf or dress up with a tie — arrive for cocktails neither shaken

leg length. One buttoned and one zipped back pocket ensure a traveller’s security. Available in blue or stone stripe in waist sizes 32in-56in. Order (MT28) for £35 or two for £60. Visit peterchristian. co.uk/tss or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT250.

Hello world 5

navy, in waist sizes 32in52in, leg 28in-34in. Order (MT22) for £35 or two for £60. Visit peterchristian. co.uk/tcc or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT250.

At ease gentlemen Chinos were developed for US servicemen overseas, and a smart cotton drill kept them looking sharp wherever they were posted. A hot-weather essential, and equally cool when dropped in to a garden party or picnic. Team with a linen shirt and Panama hat. Available in mustard, stone, brick and

Get shorty Sleep in perfect peace and tranquillity — however hot your nights get — in these summer shorty pyjamas.

Make a splash These swim shorts from classy Cote d’Azure designer Histoire du Plage are certainly head turners with their colourful turtle motif. Practical as well, they are cut with a comfortable inner lining, elasticated and

Checks with no balances Just looking at the bright colours on this shirt reminds me of lazy sunny holidays and azure blue seas — and wearing it feels even better. Full fitting for cool cotton comfort with a breast pocket that is so perfectly matched you can hardly see it. Available in sun or azure in sizes S- 4XL. Order (MS108) for £30 or two for £50. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/tcs or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT250.

Summertime and the linen is easy Linen has been the hot weather fabric of choice since ancient Egyptian times; it is the most comfortable fabric to wear when the going gets hot. Indeed every intrepid traveller should pack at least one long-sleeved linen shirt. These beauties come in azure, sky and white, in sizes S-4XL. Order (MS98) for £40 or two for £70. Visit peterchristian. co.uk/tls or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT250.

Brief encounter with colour A jumbo-sized hanky comes in handy in so many ways; solicitously removing a piece of grit from a stranger’s eye, attracting the attention of a waiter or a splash of colour to your pate in the midday sun. In addition to all of the

36in-56in; short, regular or long fitting. Trouser waist sizes 32in56in, inside leg 27in-33in. Order (MJ41/MT29) for £150. Visit peterchristian. co.uk/tsl or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT250.

making it the ideal holiday shoe. Available in navy and brown, in sizes 6-12 with half sizes in 7, 8, 9 and 10. Width fitting F. Order (MCA11) for £95. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/tds or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT250.

above, they are jolly good for brow mopping and nose blowing. Available in red or navy in spots and paisley. Approximately 55cm square. Order (MA20) 2 for £5. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/tgh or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT250.

Pipe them aboard Originally a laced moccasin developed by Mr Sperry of Maine, a sailor who based the non-slip soles on the pads of his spaniel’s paws. The Loakes deck shoe is top of its class with non-marking soles and water resistant leather. Now worn everywhere from the slippery pontoon to the dry saloon, it’s perfect for shorts, jeans or chinos,

Free standard delivery for all readers £Peter Christian

garments are traditionally tailored in the spirit of English eccentricity. The company’s customers come in all ages, shapes and sizes and the thing they have in common is a love of good old British outfitting.

£To receive free UK

delivery on online orders — normally £5 — simply visit the individual addresses and enter DT250 at the checkout. The offer ends on July 28, 2014.

12 12

Join the knee high club Peter Christian’s Travelsafe compression socks are the perfect companion for the long-haul traveller, and useful for those suffering from circulatory problems as well. Order yours now and come fly away. Available in ecru or black in sizes S(3-6), M(6-9) and L(9-12). Order (MA05) for £11 a pair. Visit peter christian.co.uk/tts or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT250.

To purchase any item on this page with free standard delivery, visit peterchristian.co.uk or call 01273 493 393

£Alternatively, call a real

person on 01273 493 393 and quote the item code (in brackets) as well as DT250 when you make your order.

£Free returns service —

send back your purchase free of charge for a full refund or exchange if you are not delighted with your order.

£Peter Christian is the

trading name of Hills of Bramley Ltd, and is wholly independent of the Telegraph Media Group.

In association with Peter Christian

Dress sense

British menswear is stuffy, dull and boring? Not a bit of it, says Nicholas Alderton

ur men’s outfitting is considered, tailored and occasionally may be eccentric, but we don’t like to give the impression that we spend undue time getting dressed. We British men like to wear the best with an air of insouciance — but this has not always been the case. When you consider what a popinjay the British male was throughout the 18th century, a romantic period of frock coats, tight breeches and high-tied cravats, it is perhaps surprising that men’s style today is so understated. Back then a man had no reservations about ostentatious displays of wealth by sporting fabulous coloured silks, brocades and even a powdered wig. At the beginning of the 19th century, Beau Brummell, an arbiter of fashion and a close friend of the Prince Regent, established a new mode of dress for men: a simplified form of tailcoat, linen shirts and full-length pantaloons that replaced knee breeches and stockings. His favouring of full-length trousers began a silhouette in men’s tailoring that endures to the present day. By the Twenties, returning soldiers rejected the stiff Victorian garb of their fathers. Fabric was something of a luxury but the Prince of Wales, a snappy dresser by any man’s standards, combined traditional British tartans and tweeds with spots and stripes, making him a style ambassador for the British textile and manufacturing industries. Apart from the Prince’s extravagance, men in general considered clothing an effeminate area of interest and suits were typically subdued and neutral in colour. It was this period that largely set the tone for the rest of the 20th century. We still like to dress with an air of understatement but I believe I detect a change. Nowadays the children of the Sixties are willing to reject the formality of the tie and embrace the colour and rich fabrics that we have so long denied ourselves. And all I can say to this is… far out.

1 1

Living the high life If you’re the type of gent who is looking to flaunt a little extra socks appeal then you need look no further. Bold, vertical stripes in thick cotton-rich knit with colour combinations as bright as an abstract expressionist canvas and as cool as the modern jazz quartet, bringing a little panache above shoe level. Available in turquoise, black and fuchsia in sizes M (6-10) or L (11-13). Order (MA162) for £8 a pair or three for £21. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/sss or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT240.

working cuffs and buttonhole. Available in chestnut and indigo in short, regular and long fittings. Chest sizes 36in-56in. Order (MJ44) for £105. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/ncj or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT240.

What’s it all about?

With more than a nod to timeless classics of the silver screen, Alfie is a cool eight-piece linen/ cotton cap. Choose blue herringbone weave to enhance the fabulousness of Baker Boys or natural to reflect the great romance of Gatsbys. Sizes S(55cm), M(57cm), L(59cm) and XL(61cm). Order (MH02) for £25 or two for £40. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/abt or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT240.

Cool in corduroy Peter Christian has been threatening a corduroy jacket for ages, and here it is. at last Your new best friend. Casual and relaxed, buggy half-lined and comfortable as an old shoe, it will never leave your side. With deep patch pockets to hold your bits and bobs, plus classy details such as

it will stretch as you move and it can be fastened anywhere. Available in sage, navy, natural. Waist sizes 32in-54in. Order (MA47) for £35 each or two for £60. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/seb or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT240.

Sashay in silk Elegantly buckle your swash and be truly shipshape. The ingenious woven elasticated design of this belt means that

Van Morrison

informality of well-tailored shorts is the perfect garb. These striped shorts are ideal for a holiday drink by the pool and smart enough for any hotel’s dress code. Long in the leg with hidden waist adjusters to accommodate the evidence of an undoubtedly welldeserved holiday indulgence. Available in Blue stripe and Stone stripe. Waist sizes 32in–52in Order (MT28) for £35 or two for £60. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/tss or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT240.

Combination two are the trousers for you Don’t make do with merely relaxing or chilling. A busy-doing-nothing pastime embraced by hipsters and even prime ministers, chillaxing is exactly what you will be ready for in Peter Christian’s new Jeanos. Yes, that’s right, they are a comfortable, lightweight combination of jeans and chinos, and are everything that the compound word suggests. Cut in cotton with a hint of spandex, they are destined to be an instant classic. Available in Nantucket, Azure, Sand and Toffee in waist sizes 32in-52in, leg 28in-34in. Order (MT33) for £40 or two for £70. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/tnj or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT240.

Dreamy summer nights There’s much to be said about the freedoms afforded by a fine nightshirt. Of course gentlemanly discretion, forever to the fore, dictates that we leave much to the imagination of the reader. What we can reveal in absolute confidence and with total certainty is that once you’ve worn a well-made nightshirt, you’ll never see the other options in the same way. Peter Christian’s supremely comfortable and elegant version is a classic nice-and-nautical design. It features smart white piping, Peter Pan collar and matching pocket. The quality is as good as you would find in the hallowed shirtage salons of Jermyn Street. Available in Blue and Pink in sizes S-3XL. Order (MN15) for £30 or two for £50. Visit peterchristian. co.uk/sns or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT240.

The long and the shorts of it There is a tide in the sartorial affairs of men when the fulllength trouser is not quite de rigueur, when the considered

Prints Charming Whether for wearing with a summer suit or solo with chinos, somewhere between once in a while and every day, a man has to let his shirt do the talking. These pure cotton summer print shirts don’t shout but whisper their style. Choose from a chivalrous Fleur de Lis pattern in navy on white or a snazzy circles pattern in white on navy. Sizes M-4XL. Order (MS117) for £45 or two for £80. Visit peterchristian. co.uk/sps or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT240.

In the jungle, the mighty jungle Even when the heat is on, a smart chap does need to display savoir faire and solar flair. It’s time for a dazzling display of intelligence up top. Peter Christian’s 100 per cent linen lightweight safari hat will keep the sun off the pate, avoiding the burn, but will also adequately shield the peepers for an after-lunch zizz. Available in sand in Sizes S(55cm), M(57cm), L(59cm) and XL(61cm). Order (MH36) for £25. Visit peterchristian. co.uk/lsh or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT240.

It’s not that easy being green, Having to spend each day the colour of the leaves, When I think it could be nicer being red, or yellow or gold, Or something much more colourful like that 3

Free standard delivery for all readers £Peter Christian

garments are traditionally tailored in the spirit of English eccentricity. The company’s customers come in all ages, shapes and sizes, and the thing that they have in common is a love of good old British outfitting.

£To receive free UK

delivery on online orders — normally £5 — simply visit the individual addresses and enter DT240 at the checkout. The offer ends on June 9, 2014.

£Free returns service —

send back your purchase free of charge for a full refund or exchange if you are not delighted with your order.

£Alternatively, call a real person on 01273 493 393 and quote the item code (in brackets) and DT240 when you make your order.

£Peter Christian is the

trading name of Hills of Bramley Ltd, and is wholly independent of the Telegraph Media Group.

Keep your cool, Daddy Kool With the mercury rising, the stakes get higher, and chaps are in danger of getting a little too hot under the collar. At times like these there is nothing quite as comfortable as a luxurious linen shirt. With a soft collar and generous cut, this version is formal enough for when you are suited and booted, or relaxed on its own with those new Jeanos. Available in short and long sleeve in Azure, Sky and White in sizes S-4XL. Order short sleeve (MS99) for £35 or two for £60. Visit peterchristian.co. uk/ssl. Or long sleeve (MS98) for £40 or two for £70. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/lsl or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT240.s

To purchase any item on this page with free standard delivery, visit peterchristian.co.uk or call 01273 493 393

Tweeters can follow the slightly dotty proprietor who tweets under the soubriquet of @LordTrousers Peter Christian has an amusing and eccentric Facebook presence. “Like” Peter Christian Gentlemen’s Outfitters for your daily dose of wit, whimsy, intrigue and the oddest sartorial snippets.

In association with Peter Christian

Dress sense

Spring has sprung and stylish gents need to refresh their wardrobes. Nicholas Alderton admires classics with a dash of eccentricity in the detail

en are hopeless at throwing away old clothing; long after their “bin by” dates they still doggedly reach for the same old frayed shirt, limp jacket or tired trousers – to wear them “just one more time”. After a long, wet winter, now is the moment to refresh your wardrobe with the odd classic piece and some savvy styling. Time to add a dash of colour to the ankle with a well-chosen sock, splash out on a crisp new shirt or a stylish jacket that turns a head or two in your direction rather than simply covering you up. There are always exceptions but men as a rule have to be bullied into shopping for themselves, and who can blame them? Gone are those sanctums of manhood, the gentlemen’s outfitters. Those hallowed places where you could retire from the hustle and bustle and be skilfully guided into making clothing choices to suit your personality, rather than being forced to take what’s on offer by a pimply assistant with trousers heading obscenely south. So where does one go these days to find comfortable classic clothing that doesn’t cost the earth? Well, the good news is that there is a gentlemen’s outfitters to hand, it doesn’t cost the earth and its range is comfortably classic while retaining enough eccentric detail to set you apart from the high street herd. Here’s my selection from the Peter Christian spring collection. It ranges from classics like the Harrington jacket to a cheeky tweed baseball cap. It’s time to sharpen up. Not only will you feel the difference, you might even get some appreciative glances from your nearest and dearest. Now wouldn’t that be nice?

British style, Hollywood cool Superstars Frank Sinatra, Steve McQueen and Elvis Presley all loved their Harrington jackets. This casual summer jacket has hardly changed since it was first introduced in 1938, proving that style never goes out of fashion. Here are all the features that you would expect from this design classic, including the distinctive two-button wind collar (worn up or down), a yoked back and a comfortable ribbed waistband and cuff. The lively plaid lining adds a splash of dash when unzipped. Choose from sand, indigo or chestnut. Sizes S-4XL. Order (MJ34) £75 or two for £140. £Visit peterchristian.co.uk/ thj or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT230.

3 what an absolute knockout. They are available in waist sizes S-4XL. Order a pack of two navy stripe and sky stripe (MU14) for only £18. £Visit peterchristian.co.uk/ sbs or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT230.

Oscar Wilde

Fashion fusion

All buttoned up If you really want to cut a dash then the moleskin waistcoat is the smarter alternative to the tank top. There are plenty of pockets for your monocle, halfhunter and silken hanky, so select a colour to offset your favourite jacket and bask in the admiring glances. Available in scarlet, doe and mustard. Sizes range from a 36in-56in chest. Order (MW01) for only £75. £Visit peter christian.co.uk/msw or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT230.

Flyweight to heavyweight shorts

Boxers are smart and flattering even when you weigh in over your fighting weight. These boxers have a nice wide waistband, a button fly and a seamless seat —

All fine and dandy I love Merino knitwear because the fine, tight knit is silky smooth, it sits under a jacket beautifully and it looks equally classy worn casually with worsted trousers or jeans. This superb V-neck pullover is a gem but Merino crew-necks, cardigans

and slip-overs are also available Choose from heather, camel, red, cobalt, grape and navy in sizes S-4XL. Order (MK35) for only £50 or two for £90. £Visit peterchristian. co.uk/mvn or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT230.

I’m a man of simple tastes. I’m always satisfied with the best

I don’t know who came up with this idea but I really like it. A traditional wool tweed has been stylishly fused with the modern world in this tweed baseball cap. It should not work but it most certainly does. The cap is available in one size with adjustable fastening, in lovat-coloured check. Order (MH27) for £25. £Visit peterchristian.co.uk/ tbc or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT230.

movers and shakers’ first choice in footwear. Try them for yourself; I think they are the finest (un)darned things that will ever grace your calf. Available in sunset, marine and sunrise in sizes M (6-8.5) or L (9-11.5). Order (MA106) for £20 or buy two for £36. £Visit peterchristian.co.uk/ bls or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT230.

£Peter Christian

And so to bed

Modesty Blaise The long sock or halfhose sock is favoured by the best dressed of Britain and Europe. There is nothing worse than witnessing a well-dressed man sit down and cross his legs, only to reveal a few inches of hairy white skin. These Bresciani socks are made in Italy from the finest cotton by the most skilled hosiers. Mario Bresciani knows a thing or two about hosiery. His factory lies in the shadow of the Alps and his fabulous fine-knit socks are Milan’s

Free standard delivery for all readers

Debonair pyjamas straight out of the top drawer and, gosh, they do feel good to wear. The secret is in the silky smooth long-stem cotton, the very finest that money can buy. These PJs are made to be seen in, so you can linger boldly over the papers at breakfast or let the cat out with feel-good confidence. Available in colours navy/blue and navy/red, in chest sizes S-4XL. Order (MP06) for only £50 or two for £90. £Visit peterchristian.co.uk/ ssp or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT230.

£To receive free UK

delivery on online orders — normally £5 — simply visit the individual addresses and enter DT230 at the online checkout. The offer ends on April 30, 2014.

£Free returns service —

send back your purchase free of charge for a full refund or exchange if you are not delighted with your order.

£Alternatively, call a real

Stinging checks Give your manservant a break. This long-sleeved Vespa checked shirt is noniron! A button-down, cotton classic, featuring a fine, multicoloured mini check in a kaleidoscopic pair of colourways. They are crisp, fresh and zingy for spring. Choose from Southend yellow and Brighton blue. Sizes S-4XL order (MS115) for £30 or buy two for £50. £Visit peterchristian.co. uk/vcs or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT230.

person on 01273 493 393 and quote the item code (in brackets) and DT230 when you make your order.

Six-sock sunshine selection Not only is this the most outrageously colourful selection of socks available, they are also the most comfortable. There is no elastic in these Soft-top socks by HJ Hall so they stay up all day without leaving a mark. How? I haven’t a clue. Your summer sock drawer sorted. Available in mint, teal, tomato, mustard, magenta and cobalt. One size 6-11. Order a pack of

six (MA89) for £30. £Visit peterchristian.co.uk/ sss or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT230.

Order (MT18) for £35 or two for £60. £Visit peterchristian.co.uk/ pdj or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT230.

9 10

Parade in drill I fell in love with these drill jeans on first sight. After all, the cut really flatters and they fit me perfectly. In fact, if a chap could marry a pair of trousers he would definitely choose these jeans. They are attractive, durable and agreeable – plus low maintenance and inexpensive. Available in pine, mustard, brick, stone and navy, waist 32in-52in, leg 28in-34in.

£Peter Christian is the

trading name of Hills of Bramley Ltd, and is wholly independent of the Telegraph Media Group.

Best foot forward I love good loafers and they really do not come much better than these. You could easily pay twice the price for shoes of this quality and they are so versatile. They can be stylishly worn with the smartest lounge suit or with your jeans and will never betray your excellent taste. Order (MCA03) penny loafer or (MCA04) tasselled loafer for £100 or buy two pairs for £190 and save £10. £Visit peterchristian.co.uk/ pcl or phone 01273 493 393 and quote DT230.

To purchase any item on this page with free standard delivery, visit peterchristian.co.uk or call 01273 493 393

Tweeters can follow the slightly dotty proprietor who tweets under the soubriquet of @LordTrousers Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

Peter Christian has an amusing and eccentric Facebook presence. “Like” Peter Christian Gentlemen’s Outfitters for your daily dose of wit, whimsy, intrigue and the oddest sartorial snippets.

In association with Peter Christian

Dress sense

Cricket buff and bon viveur Henry Blofeld knows a thing or two about sartorial finery. Here are some of his favourites from the Peter Christian range

y Dear Old Things. Helicopters, pigeons, seagulls, buses (of all colours!) - I can talk about them all. It has even been known for me to mention cricket every now and then. But writing about gentleman’s outfitting, well that’s a new one for me. In fact it is not that odd because the Italian girl of my dreams that I recently married comes with sprightly step from the world of fashion. As a result I have had to sharpen my pace and find a little swing to make sure I do not let her down. Italian women know how to dress for the winter – spring, summer and autumn too, for that matter. They invest in a sensational coat which will still be in midseason form the following year and they gee it up by adding one or two seasonal accessories to freshen the effect. It’s like reverse swing with the old ball in cricket. This is a lesson us chaps can take to heart; raise your game with stand-out garments that are guaranteed a good innings. I am generally recognised by my summer clothes as I spend most of our winter in sunnier climes and much is made of my colourful combinations. But my winter wardrobe is just as important to me. Colour comes into it, of course, but in the subtle British way of tweeds, jerseys and eye-catching corduroy trousers all jazzed up by a flamboyant sock, an occasional cravat or perhaps even a sizzling waistcoat. We have a wonderful heritage of menswear in this country that it would be lunacy to turn our overcoated backs on. I have discovered Peter Christian, an outfitters who really twig how to dress a gentleman with its mix of understated tradition and the occasional googly in the form of a monocle or jazzy bow tie. When it comes to kit they will always be on my team. Here is my selection from their latest range. Pip pip!

3 1

Just add a pint of the dark stuff As Irish as the Liffey and as kissable as the Blarney stone this tweed is made up of a sensational mix of wild colours that somehow settle into a warm and subtle country cloth fit for any gentleman. Available in Errigal (green) and Ballyness (blue) in chest sizes 36in-56in in short, regular and long fittings. Woven from 100 per cent wool and with ample pockets both inside and out. Order Donegal Tweed jacket (MJ21) for only £225. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/dtj or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT220.

4 3

Complete your inner Irishman with a matching Donegal Tweed waistcoat and save £20 when bought together with the jacket. Top o’ the morning to you. Again available in Errigal (green) and Ballyness (blue) in chest sizes 36in-56in. Satin backed with a belt adjuster for the perfect fit to be sure. Order Donegal Tweed waistcoat (MW03) for just £75. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/dtw or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT220.

Roll up, roll up

This handy Harris Tweed hat rolls up to fit in your pocket; it pops back into shape at a moment’s notice ready for chilly winter wear. Available in bronze or charcoal, in head sizes S(55cm), M(57cm), L(59cm) and XL(61cm), with a quilted lining to keep you snug. Order (MH18) for £40. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/ruh or 01273 493393 and quote DT220.

Top o’ the morning to you

The intricate geometric pattern is eye-catching and original — available in red and green colourways. Choose from sizes M-4XL. Order (MS83BD) for a button-down collar or (MS83) for a Windsor collar, £30 each or two for £50. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/ ccs or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT220.

Giant Hanks

Big, bold pure cotton squares to mop a brow or blot a hooter. Available in classic red paisley, navy paisley, red spot or navy spot. Order any two for £5 (MA20). Visit peterchristian. co.uk/ghs or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT220.

Naval gazing Originally knitted for naval officers to keep the chill winds at bay but now a wardrobe essential, this merino wool fine-knit polo neck goes with anything and assures comfort and a suave look all season. Available in cobalt, charcoal, black, camel, red, grape and navy, this wardrobe essential is light enough to

fit comfortably under a jacket. Choose from sizes S(36in)-2XL(46/48in). Order (MK21) for £60 or two for £110. Visit peterchristian. co.uk/pnj or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT220.

Cable news Chunky and warm yet super soft, this 100 per cent lambswool cable knit pullover is perfect winter wear. Come in from the cold, pick your well-thumbed copy of Wisdens from the bookcase and settle down by the blazing fire… it’s my idea of heaven. Inspired by the classic fisherman’s sweater, it is available in rust or blue in chest sizes S(36in)–3XL(50in). Order (MK66) for only £50 or two for £90. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/ckj or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT220.

A white seagull flies overhead, a very white seagull, I wonder which washing powder it uses? Henry Blofeld

The joy of sox HJ Hall has been making socks since 1882 and has stayed in business that long because it is so very good at it. The company’s latest innovation is the soft-top sock which stays up all day without leaving unsightly marks. Choose

Sharp at the crease A great all-rounder, this smart check shirt looks good with most outfits and the generous fit ensures a comfortable long innings.

between pure cotton or wool mix and/or the elasticated half-hose (knee high). Available in a veritable rainbow of fashionable colours. All one size, 6-11. Order knee high (MA01), £8 a pair or two pairs for £12; cotton rich (MA02) or wool rich (MA03), both £6 a pair or six pairs for £30. Visit

Get your footwork right One classic shoe, two classic styles. The penny loafer has a hand-sewn beef roll strap with the classic penny opening on the instep. Alternatively select the tasselled loafer inspired by the Native American moccasin. So versatile they can be worn with casual attire, formal suit or even war paint. Available in oxblood or black leather with leather soles in sizes 7-12. No wardrobe is complete without them. Order (MCA03) penny loafer or (MCA04) tasselled loafer for £100 or buy two pairs for £95 each and save £10. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/ptl or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT220.

peterchristian. co.uk/hjs or 01273 493393 and quote DT220.

A prince of wales These cheerful chunky cords (eight ridges or “wales” to the inch) form the perfect partnership with a tweed sports jacket. They are available in a splendid selection of colours — corn, moss green, toffee, tan and navy — in waist sizes 32in56in, leg 27in-33in. Comfortable and hard wearing, what more could a chap want? Order (MT08) £50 each or two for £90. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/cct or 01273 493393 and quote DT220.

Viyella cashmere comfort Viyella has been making its famous wool blend garments since 1784 and this year the famous woolsmiths has topped its range with this super-soft wool and cashmere scarf. Available in cedar or green and reversible, too – plain on one side and check on the other. Order (MA163) for £45. Visit peterchristian. co.uk/vcs or 01273 493393 and quote DT220.

To purchase any item on this page with free delivery worth £5, visit peterchristian.co.uk or call 01273 493 393

Free standard delivery for all readers £Peter Christian

£To receive free UK

delivery on online orders — normally £5 — simply visit the individual addresses and enter DT220 at the online checkout. The offer ends on January 31, 2014.

£Alternatively, call

a real person on 01273 493 393 and quote the item code (in brackets) and DT220 when you make your order.

£Peter Christian is the

trading name of Hills of Bramley Ltd, and is wholly independent of the Telegraph Media Group.

In association with Peter Christian

Dress sense

To ensure fun-filled Christmas festivities, dress for the occasion. When you look good, sure as Rudolf’s nose is red you will feel good, too. By Nicholas Alderton We all make an extra effort to look our best at Christmas. It helps spread good cheer to those around you. But for heaven’s sake do not accede to novelty naff – say “No” to that well-meant but ghastly reindeer pullover, “No” again to Santa socks and say “No way” to that disco-lit, musical bow tie. All that’s required to rise to the occasion is a well-chosen selection of tasteful garments that you feel comfortable in and you look good wearing. Christmas is the perfect excuse to try something new. So if your wardrobe is somewhat jaded and you have secretly admired a fancy waistcoat, a smart tweed jacket or tastefully colourful trousers, then now is the time to indulge yourself from the unique selection at Peter Christian. Simply adding a co-ordinated silk hankie in your top pocket raises your game, but put an interesting shirt into the mix and you will be surprised at how much difference it can make. The attention to detail will not go unnoticed. When you make your entrance at the family gathering to gasps of admiration, and your nearest and dearest artfully steers you towards the mistletoe, you will wonder why it has taken you so long to dress for the day.

The young Dickens was very good-looking and something of a fop with his flashy waistcoats, jewellery and flowing long hair Lilia Melani

Satin stripes to lie on

navy and red in sizes M (6-8.5) or L (9-11.5) Order (MA173) for £12 a pair or three for £30. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/dcm or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT210.

Debonair pyjamas straight out of the top drawer and, gosh, they feel nice to wear. The secret is in the silky smooth long-stem cotton, the finest that money can buy. These are PJs to be seen in, so don’t worry about dressing on Christmas morning to open your stocking, and you can linger over your breakfast or let the cat out with confidence. Available in colours navy/ red and navy/blue, in chest sizes 38in-56in. Order (MP06) for only £50 or two for £90. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/dcg or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT210.

Handrolled for your pocket

These silk hankies with handrolled edges come in a splendid array of colours and at a very reasonable price, so snap up a few while the going is good. Nothing sets off a jacket better than a coloured silk handkerchief (or pocket square, as our American cousins insist on calling them). Select the colour to match your shirt or tie and “Bob’s your uncle”. Available in red, claret, canary, navy, white and amethyst. Order (ME21) for £7.50 or three for £18. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/dck or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT210.

Bigger, bolder and better The classic country check has been scaled up to make this shirt sharp enough for town wear yet it won’t make the Galloping Major drop his monocle into his gravy. Available in gold and red in sizes M-4XL. Order (MS24) for £40 or two for £70. Visit peterchristian. co.uk/dcc or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT210.

A landscape woven into tweed For hundreds of years the remote islands of Lewis, Uist and Barra have produced handwoven and intricate Harris Tweed to fend off the icy blasts , so each coat comes with a “warmth guarantee”. The landscape is woven into the very fabric of the cloth, reflecting as it does the rugged colours of loch, moor and stream. A Harris Tweed jacket will last a lifetime; you do not buy a Harris but invest in one. Available in spruce, autumn heath, heather herringbone, blue and gold. Chest sizes 36in-56in in short, regular or long fittings. Order (MJ15) for £185. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/dca or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT210.

Christmas stockings Knock the socks off everyone else at the Christmas party with these fabulous Jester “Tilbury Docks”. Eighty per cent merino wool ensures colourful and toasty toes this winter. Available in gold,

loved favourite. Available in burgundy and navy in sizes M-4XL. Order (MS90) for £35 or two for £60. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/dcd or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT210.

Handmade in Somerset for toes all over Britain Once you have slipped your feet into these exquisite sheepskin beauties you can close the door to the world, but if you need to pop out for the milk or get the dog in, the sturdy rubber soles will keep your feet warm and dry. Available in brown, in sizes 7-12. Order (MSL11) for only £70. Visit peterchristian. co.uk/dch or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT210.

Belt or braces – go a bit dotty!

Order (MB18) for only £35 or two for £60. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/dci or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT210.

When it comes to holding up trousers, most men reach for the ubiquitous belt. But why not try braces? They add a festive dash to your outfit, they look superb and they won’t stretch your bank balance. Select these striking dotty braces with bright leather ends for buttons or gilt clips for a plain waistband. Available in colours navy and red.

£Peter Christian

No longer the preserve of the cad or bounder, as the tie slips out of favour the cravat is regaining popularity with all generations. A cravat adds a distinctive look to any outfit, so cosset that open neck in semi-formal silken luxury and turn a head or two into the bargain. Available in sky, claret and gold. Order (ME20) for £35. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/dcl or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT210.

The new Elgin drop-brim hat from Peter Christian is made from genuine handwoven Harris Tweed, so warmth and weather resistance come as standard, as does the duck feather in the band. Available in blue or autumn heath, sizes 55cm-61cm. Order (MH39) for £40. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/dcj or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT210.

Free standard delivery for all readers

Good show!

10 12

11 13

Royal trendsetter Leaving the lowest button of your waistcoat unbuttoned is supposed to originate from King Edward VII, whose ballooning waistline as Prince of Wales caused him to leave the bottom button of his waistcoat undone, a handy fashion to follow after second helpings of Christmas pud. To his subjects he was a style icon and they took up the habit. Available in mustard, doe and scarlet in sizes 36in-56in. Order (MW01) for £75. Visit peterchristian.co.uk/ dce or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT210.

Diamond geezer The distinctive pattern of the Campbell Clan of Argyll was made popular by the Duke of Windsor. This cosy lambswool pullover continues the tradition. Available in beige and navy, sizes M-2XL. Order (MK68) for £55 or two for £100. Visit peterchristian. co.uk/dcb or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT210.

Another feather in your cap

The most comfortable dickie dirt in your wardrobe Corduroy is essentially velvet with ridges so it is much prized for its luxurious warmth. Button down for the weekend in this fine needlecord shirt. An excellent Christmas present that will soon become a much

Save the wales Classic jeans made with fine needlecord (or wales) in four splendid colours guaranteed to liven up any party. Tough, smart and the perfect match to your personality. Available in chestnut, gold, emerald, and indigo in waist sizes 32in-52in, leg 28in-34in. Order (MT24) for £45 or two for £80. Visit peterchristian. co.uk/dcf or phone 01273 493393 and quote DT210.

To purchase any item on this page with free delivery worth £5, visit peterchristian.co.uk or call 01273 493 393

£To receive free UK

delivery on online orders — normally £5 — visit the individual addresses and enter DT210 at the online checkout. Offer ends Thursday, December 19.

£Alternatively, phone

a real person on 01273 493 393 and quote the item code (in brackets) and DT210 when you make your order.

£Peter Christian is the

trading name of Hills of Bramley Ltd, and is wholly independent of the Telegraph Media Group.