Autumn/Winter 2013 Key Colour: Camel

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Introduction

Few colours or shades communicate luxury quite like camel. Unlike the eponymous cigarettes, the hue has a timeless, classic air that instantly lifts any look you integrate it into. Striking yet versatile, it’s traditionally associated with strong, powerful outerwear; a bond that is set to be reinforced this season. Over the years camel has cemented its place within autumn/winter menswear, and for some it is considered as much a part of the seasonal palette as the monochrome we continue to reach for come the cold. Today we show you how to effortlessly integrate camel into your wardrobe, taking inspiration from the high fashion runways and breaking down the two key considerations for AW13: tailoring and, of course, outerwear…

Camel: On The Runways

Camel was prevalent at all the global fashion weeks as major design houses continued to make the colour a focal point of their collections. Top picks came from industry giants Burberry, Balenciaga and Prada. Burberry applied the hue to traditional outerwear in the form of both single- and double-breasted overcoats, along with an on trend duffle, with Christopher Bailey also choosing to incorporate a camel crew neck jumper, which combined with black tailoring and a striking red coat to great effect. Prada chose to go down the outerwear route too – a long overcoat and cropped bomber were particular highlights – whilst Balenciaga went for a statement approach by putting together full tonal camel/beige ensembles:

Camel On AW13 Runways At Burberry Prorsum, Balenciaga and Prada

Key Consideration: Outerwear

Camel has almost become synonymous with outerwear, and here at FashionBeans we have already advocated the shade for both double- and single-breasted overcoats this year. The versatile nature of the hue enables it to combine effortlessly with your existing wardrobe, making it a fantastic alternative to the typical grey, navy or black versions that dominate the seasonal offering. It’s difficult to get it wrong with a solid camel overcoat, although we need to steer clear of all ‘Del Boy’ associations. Do this by keeping the cut slim and the lines clean for a sophisticated, sharp upgrade to any look, be it smart or casual. Pair with a navy suit or a jeans and jumper combination – the piece transcends formality with ease. An alternative outerwear option that is currently experiencing a surge in popularity is the duffle. A timeless and practical addition to any capsule wardrobe, the duffle, much like the overcoat, can be worn both casually and formally if you get the cut and style right. For more information on how to wear the duffle coat in a contemporary way, make sure you check out our recent article on the subject. Other silhouettes to consider in camel this year include on trend bombers, rugged worker coats and classic field jackets – all of which look superb when paired with earth tones and shades of burgundy or navy.

Lookbook Inspiration

Men's Camel Outerwear Lookbook Outfit Inspiration

debenhams aw12 barbour allsaints aw12 h&m aw13 reiss aw13 banana republic aw13 gap holiday 2012 day birger at mikkelsen aw11 burton aw13 gant rugger aw13 club monaco aw12 club monaco aw12
Key Styles
  • Reiss Bless Short Sleeve Basic Crew Neck T-shirt RoseReiss Bless Short Sleeve Basic Crew Neck T-shirt Rose
  • Jil Sander Shawl-neck Ribbed-knit Cardigan 169704Jil Sander Shawl-neck Ribbed-knit Cardigan 169704
  • New Look Slim Fit ChinoNew Look Slim Fit Chino
  • New Balance 373 TrainersNew Balance 373 Trainers
Key Camel Pieces
  • Esprit Crew Neck JumperEsprit Crew Neck Jumper
  • American Apparel Fine Jersey Short Sleeve T-shirtAmerican Apparel Fine Jersey Short Sleeve T-shirt
  • Camel Cable-knit CardiganCamel Cable-knit Cardigan
  • Allsaints Hexen Crew JumperAllsaints Hexen Crew Jumper
  • He By Mango Straight-fit Cotton ChinosHe By Mango Straight-fit Cotton Chinos
  • Topman Camel Skinny Suit TrousersTopman Camel Skinny Suit Trousers
  • Balenciaga Wool Silk And Cashmere-blend Rollneck SweaterBalenciaga Wool Silk And Cashmere-blend Rollneck Sweater
  • Long-sleeved Organic Cotton Grandad-style T-shirtLong-sleeved Organic Cotton Grandad-style T-shirt
  • Lanvin Washed Cotton Shirt 141845Lanvin Washed Cotton Shirt 141845
  • A.p.c. Camel Wool HatA.p.c. Camel Wool Hat
  • Bresciani Knee-length Fine-cotton SocksBresciani Knee-length Fine-cotton Socks
  • Mark Mcnairy Contrast-sole Suede Derby ShoesMark Mcnairy Contrast-sole Suede Derby Shoes
Final Word

Camel is able to bring a stylish and sophisticated edge to any ensemble, from the most casual to the strictest of formal. The colour possesses an ingrained timelessness and quickly elevates every outfit that embraces it, without fail. This season’s key considerations may be centred on structured tailoring and outerwear, but a dose of this luxurious hue is always welcome in any fashion form. But now it is time to hear your view:

  • Are you a fan of camel during autumn/winter?
  • Do you own any camel pieces at present?
  • Will you be investing in a camel coat or some camel tailoring this season?
  • How do you integrate camel into your current looks?

Let us know in the comments section below…

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