Ask Harry: Ian Rosen Talks Outerwear, Wintry Scents, and Holiday Event Dressing
SHARP & Harry Rosen
In this installment of “Ask Harry“, Ian Rosen discusses the need for both parkas and overcoats, dressing up for holiday events, and the best fragrances for the upcoming season.
What are the outerwear options every man needs in his closet?
With all the time we’re spending on walks and patios these days, coats are becoming a key part of every outfit you wear. A lightweight down coat is a new must-have for me. It’s an effortless way to keep warm without the bulkiness of a heavy winter jacket, as the quilted construction helps pack in a lot of warmth. I’m really excited by the reversible program from Parajumpers. These come in navy, blue, yellow, or orange with a black alternate side for a more understated look. There are also great statement bombers that really will help you stand out. I love Eleventy’s aviator nubuck jacket with a shearling collar, as well as the wool–cashmere down jackets from MooRER which are incredibly elegant.
Parka or overcoat?
In my view, both are essentials! A great parka protects you against the elements and unpredictable Canadian temperatures. Most importantly, with today’s technology and modern designs, the parka is no longer a big, bulky option that takes up the entire front closet. You can also get a parka with materials like the Ultrasuede used by Ten C or the Double Rubber from RRD. Most brands we carry have a thermal index that helps ensure you’re protected to the right temperature below zero. An overcoat is another must-have because of its versatility. It pairs nicely with your back-to-business wardrobe but can complement your weekend look. There are so many modern options, from BOSS to Harris Wharf to Canali, that will make a statement the next time you step out.
The holidays are right around the corner — not to mention winter wedding season — and it’s time to dress up. Who is turning out the season’s top tailoring?
I’m so happy to be getting dressed up again and I’m really looking forward to winter events, weddings, and parties — no matter what they look like! Cocktail jackets are really this season’s staple, whether it’s a luxurious velvet option from TOM FORD or a statement pattern from Emporio Armani or Etro. So many brands encourage pairing them with a turtleneck or high-collared knit for a formal look that is an alternative to black tie. For those smaller get-togethers, you can even dress a cocktail jacket down with a pair of dark jeans and an open-collared shirt. All this to say, it’s definitely an investment you can get some mileage out of.
Now that we’ll be in closer quarters again, I’m looking for a new scent. Can you recommend any wintry fragrances that’ll make an impression?
After an extended year indoors, I am enjoying mixing up my fragrance selection to best match the occasion and season. Creed’s Aventus is both a workhorse and universally loved. The new release of Viking by Creed and TOM FORD’s Metallique provide a bolder profile that lasts all night, which I find perfect for weddings and evening events. If you’re not ready to commit to a signature scent, there’s Bon Parfumeur’s discovery set. I came out loving scents 901 and 701, which were fresh but assertive.
BRAND SPOTLIGHT
Kanuk
The Land Of Winter
At Kanuk, we design and handcraft winter coats in our workshop located in the heart of Montreal. For 50 years, our craftspeople have sought inspiration from the rigorous Canadian climate to create outerwear that protects against the ficklest and harshest weather conditions. As always, our products deliver flawless quality and durability. Given the lasting quality of our garments, our styles of today and yesterday intermingle seamlessly in the climate in which they were born.
Made In Canada Since 1970
Kanuk is renowned for quality and durability — and that’s because no detail goes overlooked. Our designers and artisans oversee every aspect of the man- ufacturing of our garments and are involved in each crucial step of product development. We are tireless in our pursuit of superior materials, from thread to insulation, and our rigorous quality control is applied to every single gar- ment. The coat you wrap yourself in during the coldest season was conceived and manufactured with care and no corners are ever cut.
Pursuing Our Mission
Today more than ever, we firmly believe that outerwear must be designed in the climate it will be worn. While our style has evolved over the years, our commitment to protecting you from the elements never wavers. Kanuk will continue to create clothing that meets the very real challenges of our times and constantly innovate to do what we do best: help you protect yourself.
