It’s officially that time of year. Daylight is in short supply and the air is
bitingly cold. Coughing and spluttering noises resound throughout offices and complaints about the weather are rife.
Resist as we might, but there’s no denying it: winter is in full force.Of
course, such circumstances don’t necessarily posit an attitude of doom and gloom - in fact, these colder months
breed wonderful opportunity for a winter escape, a notion we are in full endorsement of. Whether that means
embracing the chill and hightailing it to your nearest snowfields, or denying the existence of winter altogether by
jetting off to warmer climes, this time of year presents a prime opportunity for travel. Of course, any holiday - no
matter the destination - requires adherence to certain dress codes. Relax you may, but don’t let your sartorial
standards slip as a result. In need of inspiration? The Rakeis at
your service: with offerings from some
of the world’smost belovedmenswear
labels, you can be guaranteed atruly stylish getaway. The only challenge is choosing where exactly to decamp to. Thankfully, we’ve got a few
options up our sleeve…
Cliff Lodge, Snowbird, Utah
When it comes to a rakish snow escape, it pays to dress the part. Whether you’re a
seasoned ski bunny or better accustomed to the relaxed (read: louche) conventions of après ski, the secret lies in
striking a balance between functionality and flair - a feat that needn’t be overly complex. Take inspiration from
your environment: at a resort like the iconic Cliff Lodge in Snowbird, Utah - which is decidedly classic with a
contemporary edge - keep things refined and elegant, with luxurious fabrics and tech-savvy garb. For essential
weatherproof pieces like down jackets and trousers, look to vintage inspired ski-wear brand Alps &
Meters, which fusesthe technical elements of modern
snow-wear with timeless design, or renowned French label Fusalp, champions of the sport-chic silhouette. A
lambswool sweater from British outerwear experts Shackleton will provideequal partscomfort and style when it comes to
après-ski.
Gritti Palace, Venice
A wintry city break provides a prime opportunity to demonstrate your slick sartorial
prowess, and where better than the perennially exquisite Venice to truly shine? Home to some of the
world’sfinest examplesof art and
design, the city is brimming with culture, so wardrobe inspiration is in no short supply. To sample true luxury,
book yourself into the lavish Gritti Palace, a veritable exemplar of Venetian splendour that occupies a prime
position on the Grand Canal. The elegant surroundings will no doubt serve to inform your outfitting: think sumptuous
woollen layers in rich tones of burgundy and navy, paired with dark tailored trousers and classic leather wingtip
derbys. Don’t shy from bold details, for if ever there’s a place to embrace flair, it’s undoubtedly Venice, a city
so famed for its eccentricities.
Eden Rock, St Barths
Desperate for a dose of winter sun? The ever-elegant Eden Rock in St Barths is just
the place to get your fix. A renowned bolthole for glamorousmembersof the Hollywood glitterati, it calls for suitably sophisticated
attire - rubber flip flops and singlets have no placein such chic
environs. Instead, take cue from cinematic icons like Alain Delon in Plein
Soleil or Sean Connery’s Bond and channel an artful nonchalance by opting for soft silhouettes and lightweight
linens and cottons. Your ensemble needn’t be complex: relax poolside in seersucker swimshorts by London-based brand
Hemingsworth and come lunchtime, throw on a
handcrafted linen shirt by Magnus & Novus. In terms of
footwear, Manebi espadrilles are ideal for transitioning
effortlessly from beach to bar. Such a low maintenance approach generates a timeless holiday aesthetic that endures
for good reason.
The Point
, Adirondacks
Set on the lush wooded shore of Upper Saranac Lake, the Point in Upstate New York
lends a whole new meaning to the notion of roughing it. The retreat was built in the 1930s byWilliam Avery Rockefeller and remains much-loved by those wanting to embrace the great
outdoors whilst maintaining a certain level of comfort. When it comes to packingfor such a destination, choose versatile garments that fuse form with
function, layering fabrics like corduroy and cashmere to capitalise on bothwarmth and style. An understated cable knit jumper by British label
Connolly worn beneath a durable, weather-proof
jacket by William & Son makes for a rakish
pairing. And a scarf is non-negotiable: Gieves & Hawkes’ autumnal-toned fringed
offering is the perfect finishing touch.
