If you’re after an entirely new wardrobe, or you simply want to invest in a solid
piece of outerwear for winter, The Rake Atelier has you covered. With new brands added weekly it can be hard to keep
track of what’s new, however our staff have cherry-picked their top three pieces to make life a little easier,
should you so wish to follow their suggestions.
Tom Chamberlin, Editor
"Much of the approach to winter is spent preparing for time outside, so knitwear, overcoats and appropriate shoes
usually take up people’s focus. This means that what people wear once they are indoors – and let’s face it, that’s
where people spend the most time when it is cold – takes a hit and the christmas jumper gets too much air time as a
result. So here is a selected ensemble, specifically for indoors.
This jacket is Edward Sexton’s first
ready-to-wear jacket. Gratifyingly the signatures are all there – the shoulders, the lapels, the flare and nipped
waist. The red overcheck on the POW does add a timely festive edge and all-in-all makes a double-breasted wearer like myself break sartorial
protocols.Winter’s early nights and low temperatures invite a darker, more
melancholy palette into people’s day-to-day wear. This is a missed opportunity, as wool trousers will give adequate
protection whatever the colour. Take for instance these from Salvatore Piccolo – they pair well with the jacket’s
cream tones and as they are 100% wool, they will insulate and hold shape beautifully.
Some shoes ask to be stared at and analysed so as to better understand the maker’s
genius in manipulating lines and shapes. This is one such shoe and when they arrived in the office it was most
distracting – largely because of the rich burgundy tones, the insouciant tassels and squared stitching at the toe.
It is perfect for most situations, though ideally not out in the pouring rain or snow."
Charlie Thomas, Online Editor
"It can be annoying to dress for a night out on the town in winter. Because it’s cold
outside, pubs, bars and restaurants will crank up the heating indoors, so your overcoat and heavy gauge knitwear
immediately become redundant. Leave the jumper at home, check the coat in at the cloakroom and wear an overshirt
with multiple pockets to store your essentials. For something smarter, this Santillo shirt will do – made from soft muslin
cotton, it proudly sports a throw-back spread collar, reminiscent of the 1960s; a half-placket, as well as a
single-flap chest pocket. Pair it with slim black denim and slick Chelsea boots, for a complete, louche evening
ensemble."
Anna Prendergast, Online Editorial Associate
"London is currently experiencing arctic conditions, so when it's this cold, I'll be
opting for anything that brings warmth to my core temperature (and ever-paling complexion). Chapal, who used to make jackets for aviators much hardier than myself, has
created a tobacco suede jacket that will fit snugly over an Anderson & Sheppard knit, and the elephant print
scarf is a much-needed reminder that it's tropical and sunny somewhere."
Jessica Beresford, Editorial Manager, E-Commerce
"Awkward, in-between weather calls for layers which are light on their own yet
provide weight in numbers. Merino is by far the most superior wool – it’s thermoregulating, won’t irritate the skin
and doesn’t pill easily – and Falke’s roll neck puts it to excellent use. Wear with something to break the wind,
like Blackhorse Lane’s
chore jacket, and tidy sneakers for a sharp weekend look."
Benedict Browne, Editorial Associate
"I used to think Barbour wax jackets were relatively cool, then I discovered Private White V.C. and its Twin-Track. It’s the outerwear specialist’s most
complex design, and with its belted waist and twin RiRi zip, there’s nothing else quite like it. Layer with a roll
neck and denim and you’re onto a winner.I’m a sucker for cashmere roll necks
at the moment. They’re the ultimate fall/winter layering piece and also key for bringing down a tailored ensemble a
notch. Edward Sexton’s iterations are up there with the best and the charcoal version is the pick of the
bunch.If 100% cashmere tracksuits aren’t a modern luxury
then I don’t know what qualifies as one. So what better garment to lounge in on a day off than this number from Cifonelli?"
Megan Plenderleith, Copywriter
"One’s winter arsenal should be bursting at the seams with cosy knits and heavyweight
coats, but I like to make sure the accessories, which are somewhat forgotten when layering for warmth, are still
proudly presented. Nackymade, which is known for its quirkiness, has
created exquisite pairs with unusual dinosaur-shaped arms, ideal for the winter sun. But to seamlessly finish a
rich-toned winter ensemble, it would serve you well to also add a Lock and Co Muirfield Tweed Cap and Barbanera Kerouac Suede Boots for good measure."
Natasha Drax, Online Editorial Intern
"As the working week draws to an end my mind is increasingly pulled to thoughts of
the weekend and potential ventures out of the city. Private White V.C.’s take on the Harrington jacket, so valued by the likes of James Dean and Steve McQueen, provides the perfect
option for a countryside jaunt thanks to its lightweight yet completely waterproof composition. Pair with C.QP’s dark green suede sneakers to ensure comfort
on your travels, and complete the attire with Frank Clegg’s leather travel
duffle, for a sophisticated edge."
