When I added this Abercrombie jumper to GQ’ s best men’s sales edit last month, I thought it was a reliably vibey piece…. in a sort of boxy, dadcore, Mikel Arteta on the Emirates stadium touchline kind of way. It’s the kind of wardrobe essential that plays just as well at the school gates as it does tucked under a wax jacket while roaring on England’s Six Nations endeavours. Even when judged by those ever-dependable standards, I didn’t expect this to be one of our readers’ favourite January style buys. You lot can’t stop clicking ‘add to basket’ on this thing.
Now I think about it, though, I get it. Available in two warm neutral hues and one grey-toned blue, this £39 jumper is far more versatile than I originally gave it credit for. Especially since it’s available at a 40 per cent discount. So in tribute to the adoration this Abercrombie jumper has incited, here are three separate visions in which I can see it thriving; from everyday edginess to desk-bound drip. Scroll on, you might learn something.
Styling option 1: ‘The Brick Lane’
Inky denim, silver-toned jewellery, caps, Adidas and white tube socks – this is the uber-youthful, edgy face of fleecewear and everyday styling. The kind of thing that would effectively and efficiently camouflage you into Sunday’s market-lined and tourist-filled Brick Lane throngs. Just add an ever-so-pretentious tote bag.
Styling option 2: ‘The Explorer’
A fleece-like pick such as this Abercrombie jumper will never not say ‘gorpcore’ to me. Leaning into the mountaineering chic, I’m picturing the pale beige Abercrombie colourway with a pair of technical trousers, a North Face puffer and Salomon sneakers. That, and an abundance of carabiners.
Styling option 3: ‘The Finance’
Let me start this one off by saying, GQ cannot (and will not) endorse the traditional fleece-and-gilet finance bro image. However, that’s not to say it cannot be elevated. A quarter-zip over a dress shirt will always evoke this feel, but it can be done well. Scale up the proportions, keep to a neutral colour palette (no, repeat, no navy) and pair with sleek, tailored trousers with just enough bagginess to maintain a modernised feel.