The long wait is over. After a year, We are finally able to watch a new season of The Crown on Netflix. I personally think this is one of the best shows on television. Wait…is Netflix television? What is television anymore? I guess I mean that The Crown is one of the best episodic shows available. So when I finally got the chance to sit down for a few episodes I was thrilled. But I had forgotten how great the clothes were. Every season I watch, I’m always amazed by how well dressed the royal family was (and still is). I believe most of the clothing is done by Timothy Everest, and they do an exceptional job, but I’m sure other English heritage brands are used as well. While I was watching I was struck by the number of stylish ideas one could work into their wardrobe. I jotted down a few, and thought I would share them in the hopes you might find some style inspiration too, like I did.
A Sport Coat Makes Every Outfit Better
There is a scene in the first episode of season one where a character goes out on a boat to gather some lobster traps. He’s wearing what looks like a striped long sleeve t-shirt and a checked sport coat. And you know what? It works! It was a true “sport” jacket. Now this is probably an easier look to pull off if you are an actual member of the royal family, but my point still stands. Throw a jacket or a blazer on with a pair of jeans or some chinos or even some trousers, and you will immediately have a much better outfit.
Four-in-Hand Knots
None of the men who are part of the House of Windsor actually wear Windsor knots. They all wear four-in-hand knots and achieve a thinner or thicker knot based on the fabric used. Personally, I think Windsor knots are too big and too ostentatious. They don’t fit most faces well and are too big for most collars. A four-in-hand knot is more refined, and the imperfect shape adds a little character while framing our imperfect faces. It just makes sense.
Always Wear the Appropriate Clothing
At another point in the first two episodes, a character wears some wildly inappropriate clothing for a hunting trip. This ends up disappointing everyone involved, wasting everyone’s time, and embarrassing the character who did it. Now, I’m not talking about knowing when to wear formal, semi-formal, dressy-casual, casual, and so on. I’m talking about when to wear clothes suitable for outdoor activity, business meetings, family dinners, lounging on the couch watching F1, etc. Wearing the right clothes to allow you to participate with a group is a good thing for you and a courtesy for your host.
Barbour Jackets
If you take just one piece of advice from the post, let this be it. Invest in a Barbour jacket. I prefer the Beaufort (NOT Classic) model. I know they are not cheap. But keep in mind that not only will they last decades if properly cared for, but also they will only get better with age. Think of Barbour jackets like a pair of boots. If you treat them and maintain them, they will develop a beautiful patina unique to only your pair. Waxed cotton responds the same way over time to some TLC. Down the road the expense will be worth it.
Knitwear
If The Crown has proven anything to me, it’s that the Brits are masters of knitwear. No one does it better (although the Swedes and Icelanders are pretty good too). When you’re shopping for sweaters, look for British wool and British-made goods, and that should point you in the right direction. Check out stores like Cordings of Piccadilly and Campbell’s of Beauly for some knitwear inspiration.
Let me know in the comments below if you’re watching The Crown. If you are, let me know what style inspiration you’re taking from it, and what you would add to this list!