A Closer Look at: AW12 Essentials From Fly53

If like us, you’re casting around for some threads now that the weather has turned, but aren’t endowed with the wealth of a small Arabian state to fund that then we have a suggestion for you: Fly53. The lovely folks over at the British streetwear brand have their finger firmly on the pulse, and if you go into one of their stores with a fashion-trained eye, there’s some bargainous and superb items to be had.

First up, a paisley shirt: channelling something gangstery and menacing through a very British tailored shirt, this oversize paisley is an autumn essential. The double-colour approach makes the print fresher and more youthful, and the geometric structure of the pattern gives it a very modern touch. It’s much cleverer that it might at first appear; wear it buttoned up with sleeves cuffed to just above your elbow; contrast with another pattern if you’re feeling brave.

Perhaps a camo? If you’ve even briefly glanced at a streetstyle blog in the last 6 months, you will have seen camo. This parka takes that trend and (as with the shirt) refracts it through a classic British cut. Again, note the pattern – this isn’t basic Army-issue DPM, but a complex, multi-layered, bespoke design that belies this jacket’s very reasonable price.

Finally, that winter staple, a Fair Isle jumper: again this one is beautifully-finished, taking a geometric approach to pattern and giving it a wintry spin. So there you go: that’s winter – if not completely wrapped up, then definitely on the way to being sorted.