Style Guide: Scott Fraser Simpson
The idea, according to Simpson, is to “take those foundational details and then contemporize them in a way that doesn’t put two fingers up to the original design, acting like we’re so much better. We respect the past, but we’re going to bring it forwards a bit. We’re not trying to reinvent the wheel, but breathe life into it”.
The Style Signature: Wide-Leg Trousers
Wide cuts have been making the rounds the last few years, and it’s fair to say Simpson was there at the beginning of the resurgence. Men’s fashion had been obsessing over slim and skinny fits for so long, but with menswear taking on a more comfortable focus of late, it makes sense that wide legs are finally getting the attention they deserve.
What’s so good about a wide leg then? Quite a lot, it turns out. “It’s the ease of them, and to be honest they’re just elegant. You can throw a T-shirt on with them and they look banging, they’re comfortable as shit.
“They do things for everyone, they elongate your leg, and they’re like wearing pyjamas, so naturally more people are moving towards them. I’m glad to see it’s coming round. Finally it’s coming around for real. It’s here, I told you all.” We’re sold.
Simpson’s trousers come in a few different styles, from the Tower to the Empire cut, but all of them sit high on the waist and flow elegantly down the legs. They can be worn like jeans – that is, with virtually everything. As it gets colder, layer up on top with a chunky knit and an open chore jacket for a contemporary take on the look.
Scott Fraser Simpson’s 5 Essential Style Tips
Be Purposeful
The 1973 Vespa 50 Special pictured is one of eight scooters in Simpson’s collection. Like his clothes, they serve a purpose.
“I use my bikes all the time. I couldn’t do my job without them. Recently I was at a belt manufacturer in Walthamstow, then I came down to a factory I’m using in Wapping, then I was in Shoreditch doing a fitting at a studio I’m using, then I went off to Hackney to this fabric wholesaler and then I had to come back to do another fitting. Then I drove to Camberwell.
