Midnight-blue menswear is gentlemanly, fresh and classic. Rich navy shades are softer and more forgiving than black, and you’ll notice a deep blue will greatly flatter and offset any redness in the face, whereas a palette of black and charcoal will accentuate them.
Navy hues are said to evoke feelings of stability, wisdom and mystery. This family of shades, reminiscent of a clear night sky, make for versatile wardrobe anchors. Choose suits, coats and knitwear in these tones and they’ll pair well with sandy neutrals, crisp whites, strong pops of colour, and denim. These are shades favoured by our local designers this season and I’ve chosen my favourite 10 items to share with you below.
Merino jacquard sweater in navy, $479 from Thom Morison
Knitted and pressed in Tāmaki Makaurau, Thom Morison knits are classic, hard-wearing and chic. Thom’s Grey Lynn-based store offers a tight and considered offering of well-made menswear, and if you haven’t yet checked the shop out, I suggest you do next time you’re in the area. Shop
Matt Nash chore jacket in navy, $350
It is a clever and inspired niche that Matt Nash has carved out with his designs. MNUniform pieces are made for work and life. The range is inspired by Kiwi workwear of old, with subtle updates on the fit and finish that make the pieces feel like sleek French streetwear. I’m not alone in my fandom: Matt’s range of aprons, overalls, shirts and chore jackets can be seen on the back of many of our favourite chefs, florists and artists. My favourite part? A special coin is sewn into the interior of every garment to bring the wearer good luck. Shop
Barker navy herringbone suit, $1299 from Working Style
Working Style is pegging this suit as one of its most adventurous to date. The 100% wool suit is made in Turkey from a luxurious tweed with a deep navy base accented with mocha. The suit features deep mocha buttons, which give the navy suit a retro, 60s feel. Pair with walnut brogues. Shop
Midnight-navy corduroy overshirt, $375 from Crane Brothers
Try this worn unbuttoned and open over a crew-necked cotton knit in a similar shade for a simple and elegant casual-wear option. The corduroy has a velvet finish that will softly reflect light. Shop
Kuon Boro patched cardigan, $449 from Workshop
Japanese brand Kuon is known for its thoughtful detailing and stitchwork. This piece is named the Boro, after the Japanese technique of using torn and unused pieces of fabric to stitch together an item. The cardigan references this with patchwork elbow patches and a patch inside the button line. Shop
Save Khaki United long-sleeve tee, $149 from Fabric
A soft, lightweight, long-sleeved tee in a marine stripe makes for a perfect layering item all year round. This number from Fabric is in an organic cotton, hemp and recycled polyester mix. Shop
Asuwere rain mac in navy, $350
This grown-up and sophisticated windbreaker – perfect for the morning commute or weekend strolls – will keep you protected in light showers and high winds and looks great, with the fit cut close to the body. Shop
Barena trousers, $362 from Mr Porter
Casual and yet perfectly put together, these fine-gauge cord trousers from Barena would look great paired with a relaxed-fit knit or drill cotton chore jacket and simple trainers. Shop
R.M. Williams Comfort Craftsman, $645 in marine blue
An R.M. Williams Craftsman in a marine blue is a bold choice, but it would work as a masterstroke for those seeking a full monochromatic look. Pair with a narrow pair of indigo jeans, a zip-front knit and an overcoat for a versatile, cool-weather look. Shop
Moscot Lemtosh custom tint in denim blue, $679 from Black Box Boutique
For as long as I can recall I have claimed the Moscot Lemtosh frames as best in show on the eyewear scene. This shape is timeless, works for all genders and plays equally as well for reading glasses as for sunglasses, depending on your need. Shop
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