Inspo vs. My Take: How to Layer This?

*inspiration is picture 3 and taken from Velasca’s S/S 26 Lookbook.

This is honestly one of my favorite fits I have ever worn. I have been obsessed with the latest Velasca lookbook, so I treated this as an early test run for where I want my style to go this summer.

If you’ve seen my previous posts, you know I love a good tonal palette for my fits. This one is a nice mix of chocolate brown, cream, and espresso. I’ve also made sure the tones are cooler-leaning and the whole look feels incredibly cohesive and intentional. The cream stripes provide just enough contrast to break up the brown without the harshness of a pure white. It gives off an earthy, sophisticated vibe that feels very grounded (and I just love the espresso/chocolate browns).

The lookbook pairs their t-shirt with a cream linen blazer, but I haven't been able to find a layer that works for the polo as well. I love the V-shaped silhouette created by the high-rise trousers and tucked in shirt too much to hide it under another layer. Plus, I think a wide Johnny collar like this usually fights with blazer lapels. It ends up clashing too much.

I am looking for ideas on how to layer this for a cooler evening without losing the proportions or the vibe. I tried a shawl cardigan and my brown suede jacket - neither one hit the mark. Maybe a light cardigan without any collar?

What would you add to this?

The Breakdown

• Top: Spier & Mackay striped linen/cotton knit polo

• Pants: Mango chocolate pleated trousers

• Belt:Gap dark brown braided leather belt

• Shoes:Mango Men suede penny loafers

• Fragrance:Tom Ford Oud Minerale (more brown!)