It’s that common problem that occurs for all of us every season; trying to find a practical yet polished look to step out in. Here at KJ Beckett, we thought we should share our tips on how to remain dapper whilst keeping cosy – after all, it’s the season of good will?
Rule #1
Get the essentials
(Apparently) You release most of your body’s heat from your head, hands and feet. Your face and chest are also a cause of concern when wrapping up warm as it is the most sensitive area when exposed to the cold. Well you’re in luck! We offer an extensive range in hats, gloves, socks and scarves to prevent you getting frost bite.
Rule #2
Complimenting colours
Another year, another season which means another fashion change that we have to obey, if we don’t; we get dumped with ‘soooo last year’ comments. To avoid the cringing criticism and splashing the cash out, just start with what colours are in and what’s not. Raid through your wardrobe and you could find some buried knitwear treasure, with vintage clothing coming back from the dead; it’s time to make the most of them! And that when we come in! You can add those all important finishing touches to your vintage clothes with our range of designer accessories. Why get a whole new outfit, when you can just create a new look just by adding accessories. The colours of the season for men are neutrals, industrials and the occasional bright & bold.
Rule #3
Get into the spirit of the season
Whether you like it or not, summer is over – there, I said it! So embrace the season with its cold nights and wet/windy days, it’s not all that bad. Try new things, like making homemade mulled wine and festive toffee apples this autumn - that should get you in the spirit of things. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, try making a hot chocolate after a hard day’s work (invest in a large packet of mini marshmallows and cream). Autumn might not offer luxury weather, but with our stylish accessories and hearty beverages, you will strive through the season like a breeze. You might find your positive attitude towards the cold period will affect your attire!
Rule #4
Dress appropriately for occasions
Don’t fight the cold just to look good, why not kill 2 birds with one stone (matter of speech). Wrap up warm this winter and stay looking stylish & sophisticated – yes it can be done! Instead of loose, skin baring t-shirts for the Christmas work do, opt for a patterned shirt with a fitted plain cardigan (or the opposite; plain shirt with a patterned cardigan) with a pair of either copper red/navy blue or jet black trousers (depends on the colour/ patterned shirt/cardigan). This is when our accessories come into action, add a knitted tie with a stylish tie slide (or clip) for some va va voom to your winter attire. Why not go all out and add a watch from our huge collection, choose from our stunning range of men's watches here.
Something for Food Lovers - How to make the perfect Toffee Apples:
Sticky Toffee Apples
Time to prepare: 10 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Makes: 8
Ingredients:
- 500g sugar
- 75g butter
- 225g Lyle's Golden Syrup
- 150ml water
- 2 tsp malt vinegar
- 8 medium apples, wiped
- Lollipop sticks
Method:
- Put the sugar, butter, Lyle’s Golden Syrup, water and vinegar onto a large heavy based pan. Heat gently for about 5 minutes, stirring until the sugar had dissolved.
- Using a clean pastry brush, brush the inside of the pan with cold water just above the level of the mixture, then bring to the boil. Boil rapidly for 5-10 minutes** (this is the important bit) or until the temperature reaches the soft crack stage or 143C.
- Meanwhile push the wooden sticks into the centre of the apples. Place a sheet on parchment paper on a tray (trust me, the sheet make easy cleaning after, we learnt that the hard way!).
- Remove the pan from the heat and allow the bubbles to settle. Dip the apples very carefully onto the toffee to coat well. Twirl each around a few seconds to allow the excess toffee to drip off and place on the paper to cool and harden.
