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![An English classic comes back, with a sophisticated dash of whimsy By <a href="http://sharpformen.com/author/nicole-roberts/">Nicole Roberts</a><div id='nr_fo_top_of_post'></div><p><strong> THE TREND:</strong></p>
<p><strong> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Windowpane is a widely spaced check pattern that gets its name from its resemblance to—you guessed it—windowpanes. The “heart,” or the inside, of the check tends to have a three-dimensional look, often with a subtle houndstooth-like texture. The check is slightly rectangular. The English-inspired pattern, when done well, suits done with window panes look relaxed, yet dressy. Although the pattern is classic, the approach is modern: bringing the old school treatment to modern, slimmer cuts.</span></strong></p>
<p><strong> SPOTTED:</strong></p>
<p><strong> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">There’s been a move toward British heritage-inspired dressing recently, particularly in menswear. On the runway both <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/complete/F2011MEN-EZEGNA" onclick="javascript:_gaq.push(['_trackEvent','outbound-article','http://www.style.com']);">Ermeligildo Zegna</a> and Iconic English brand <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/complete/F2011MEN-DUNHILL" onclick="javascript:_gaq.push(['_trackEvent','outbound-article','http://www.style.com']);">Dunhill</a> took a classic approach to windowpane suits, while <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/complete/F2011MEN-ETRO" onclick="javascript:_gaq.push(['_trackEvent','outbound-article','http://www.style.com']);">Etro</a> tried something distinctly quirkier with a bolder print and a shirt, tie and pocket square in contrasting patterns. </span></strong></p>
<p>Jeff Farbstein, from Harry Rosen says that, in Canada, the trend was reinforced by Prince William’s royal tour following his marriage to Kate Middleton. A very smart dresser, William was spotted in a double-breasted windowpane suit, representing the English style made famous by Savile Row tailors.</p>
<p>And while classic style is enjoying a comeback, younger and more sartorially savvy men are wary of wearing anything that seems too serious. Windowpane checks are a nod to classicism but they have a sense of whimsy that makes them appeal to a younger or more fashion-forward customer base.</p>
<p><strong>HOW TO PULL IT OFF:</strong></p>
<p><strong> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">We’ve enlisted the help of Farbstein to help guide you in your quest to suit up in checks.</span></strong></p>
<p>Let’s start with the cut: An English cut is your friend. That’s because it’s “tailored to the body with higher armholes, and sides with vents. A trimmer, shorter contruction with an English Shoulder—more rope, or a Sartorial Shoulder—more rounded,” explains Farbstein. The slimmer cut modernizes the old-fashioned pattern.</p>
<p>Next, Farbstein suggests this pattern in grey tones: “Shades of grey are dominant right now, with blue tones also popular (but not navy). It’s easier to get a little bit of colour in a windowpane suit,” he says.</p>
<p>He also suggests looking for “a suit that has between 4.5-5cm checks. It’s the most universally flattering.”</p>
<p>And finally, accessories: The shirt should be a Spread Collar because “it fits the symmetry of the garment,” says Farbstein. It will help balance the proportion of the slim-fitting suit.</p>
<p>Don’t let the bold check deter you from wearing a pattern on your shirt. “A trend in suiting tends to be to go with a stronger shirt pattern and plainer neckwear- something that coordinates well with the inside of the windowpane check,” says Farbstein.</p>
<p>If you opt for a patterned tie instead of, or along with, a patterned shirt, we suggest ditching the boring stripes for something more modern In keeping with proportions, however, ties should be slim and tied in a four-in-hand knot.</p>
<p>A bold pattern is nothing to fear this fall. Just make sure you balance proportions, have fun with colors, and keep it tailored, and don’t forget your pocket square!</p>
<p> </p>
<div id='nr_fo_bot_of_post'></div> <span id="pty_trigger"></span> Fall Style Edit: Windowpane Check Suits](http://sharpformen.com/wp-content/gallery/window-pane-checks/456.jpg)