There was a time when, if you were asked where you bought your jacket, you would be thrilled if you could reply Comme des Garçons or Jean Paul Gaultier. No more. Today the pride comes from answering that the sweater is from Uniqlo or the trousers from Gap.
It took a while for the high street revolution to get menswear right. Until a few years ago, the offering was second-rate, inexpensive-looking teenage tat. Now, whether you’re 40 or 14, there will be something that looks just right and costs you very little: the fit got better, the fabrics improved and the styling became pin-sharp.
When a couple of young actors asked me to help them to find good suits for no more than £250, I had them both kitted out, within budget, in less than 45 minutes. That wouldn’t have been possible five years ago. The hardest bit was deciding whether to go to Reiss, Banana Republic or Ben Sherman first.
Christmas traditionally has been an expensive time for men: black tie, velvet jackets and dark suits didn’t come cheap. This year, though, you can transform yourself into a Cary Grant lookalike without venturing off Oxford Street. Jil Sander’s J+ range for Uniqlo has a great black velvet jacket with satin trim on the pockets and lapels for £79.99 (not many left, mind you); Marks & Spencer has black patent-leather shoes from £19.99; Topman has some great slim-fitting black suits with white trim on the lapels for £110; and, if you want to invest in a more luxurious, well-cut, plain suit that works for day and night, head to Aquascutum. The label’s black suits by Nick Hart look and feel as if they cost a fortune but will set you back a reasonable £495.
Do not skimp on items such as a good watch or an expensive silk tie. Both will transform a high street outfit into one that looks as if it’s just returned from the casinos in Monaco. Cheap and chic is no longer wishful thinking; it’s on a high street near you. Enjoy.