The festive season is upon us, which means one thing is certain: weekends away. Every group getaway to the country, every semi-awkward visit to the in-laws, every blissful break for two requires a bag packed and ready to go. Our man Oliver Spencer, recently nominated British Menswear Designer of the Year, breaks down the bare essentials for a two-day trip.
The wallet
Il Bussetto, Magic card wallet, £69
These Il Bussetto wallets come in fabulous colours and age beautifully. A good investment.
The music player
Apple, iPod Touch, from £249
It’s good to keep your music separate if you misplace your phone as often as I do. And the design of the new model looks great.
The camera
Ricoh, R8 digital camera, from £300
This is such a versatile little camera, and it looks great, too. I take mine with me everywhere.
Socks
Pantherella, cashmere-blend socks, £80
There’s nothing better than a pair of super-luxurious socks. These last forever and are a great investment.
The umbrella
London Undercover, camouflage umbrella, £115
This British-based brand is so cool I’ve started selling this brolly in my shop.
Underwear
Sunspel, boxer shorts, £28.50
These guys make the best underwear. They’re a great fit, in great fabrics – what more can you ask for?
The jumper
Oliver Spencer, Basket rollneck jumper, £149
I’m wearing mine at this very moment. It’s basket-weave, which gives it a lovely texture, and it’s fitted to the body, which makes it super-warm.
The trousers
Universal Works, Aston trousers, £105
Universal Works are perfect for the everyday wardrobe. They make such good basics, like these great-fitting trousers.
The T-shirt
Folk, Stripe T-shirt, £55
The guys at Folk are great friends of mine, and their T-shirts are made with super-soft cotton – I’ve got loads of them.
The shoes
Oliver Spencer, Derby shoes, £279
The ultimate versatile pair of shoes: they work just as well with jeans as they do with a suit. Great for day and night.
The shirt
Favourbrook, Bryanston shirt, £95
Favourbrook shirts are structured and well-fitting, which makes them ideal for a night out. I like this paisley number.
The jacket
Oliver Spencer, Portland slim-fit blazer, £290
This is a great jacket, slightly more tailored than our usual cut, which makes it excellent for eveningwear.
The bag
Oliver Spencer, Tan leather weekend bag, £379
Made with gorgeous bridle leather, this bag has camouflage lining and is just the right size for a weekend getaway.