A simple Spring-Summer styling trick that I can't get enough of
Call me Don Draper because I be draping
100% of any affiliate link commission will be donated to ICW - a 501(c)(3) organization that supports adults with developmental disabilities <3
What’s up party people? After weeks of godawful global warming heatwaves in LA, the June Gloom has officially arrived and I could NOT be any happier about it. (Oops, spoke too soon and it’s 90 degrees again smh…) I want to talk about a styling move I’m currently obsessed with: the drape - a.k.a an extra layer tied around your shoulders.
I don’t know if this is Baader–Meinhof effect, Love Story effect or just plain old Spring seasonal effect, but I’m seeing it everywhere right now and I’m here for it. This is obviously not a new thing, nor is it a revolutionary concept, but I think that the most timeless fashion trends are born from function and practicality. Without further ado, here are some cool ways to incorporate the drape plus some shopping recs, etc…
The Proper Tie
First things first - this is the correct way to tie your sweater, or I think this way is totally acceptable and possibly even cooler?
Under no circumstances should you let these swagless #menstyle dorks convince you that this way is ok, because it is not. Ideally, you want it to look considered, but not like you’re trying too hard.
It’s also completely acceptable to let that thang hang aka let the sleeves just fall untied. I wish I could remember the runway show from a few years ago where some of the models had sweaters draped on their shoulders with the ends of the sleeves tucked into their trousers like suspenders. It was excellent. If anyone knows please comment and let me know because it’s killing me.
The Pop of Color
You can totally do the drape with a black crew-neck sweatshirt, but for maximum effect, a bright knit sweater works best. It’s the perfect way to add a pop of color to a monochromatic outfit.
One of the most picked up images from Jonathan Anderson’s ultra-celebrated Spring-Summer 2026 Dior show was this draped spicy pink number. Do you dare?? Why the fuck not? I usually reserve this move for when I’m walking out the door and I feel like my fit is a bit boring or needs a little extra pizazz but I don’t really want to wear a jacket or I need to have my arms free to eat spinach artichoke dip at Houstons. But in general, as men, we are served a lot of heather grey and charcoal grey and… heather charcoal. Let’s face it, most of us could use a little more color in our wardrobe.
The Prep Two-Step
Ok this is where things get a little tricky. The drape has been a staple of every Ralph Lauren, Brooks Brothers and L.L. Bean campaign since the dawn of time. There’s nothing inherently wrong with this - in fact, ever since binging Avery Trufelman’s masterclass 7-part podcast series on American Ivy style (also subscribe to Articles of Interest because it’s rad) and consequently ebaying an original copy of 1965 Japanese prep bible Take Ivy, I’ve been sort of obsessed with Ivy style. That being said, I personally don’t want to come off like a character from Dead Poet’s Society - and unless you’re wanting to go full New England Dickie Greenleaf, maybe don’t pair it with your Vineyard Vines shirt, white Dockers and boat shoes.
I’m giving borderline Massachusetts preparatory here, but I think the loose-fit jeans and the sneakers are steering it clear of caricature territory.
The Extra Texture
Another element the drape adds to an outfit is dimension. A knotted sweater is sculptural and dynamic and can be such a cool, easy way to add texture and depth to your look. I love a nice chunky cotton cable knit for extra oomf, but anything with a visible weave works great and creates contrast.
Perhaps most importantly - a draped sweater is like a warm hug around your neck, and who knows, you might even get chilly and actually wear the thing for real! *gasp!*
I’ve put together a ton of killer shopping recs here for you to peruse. (Again, 100% of any affiliate link commission will be donated to ICW.) Stay tuned for more spicy takes on mens clothing, art, wine, interior design, etc…
Runout groove:
Bonus - how sick is this pic of Jimmy Cliff wearing a custom knit Jimmy Cliff sweater!??
Peace and love,
on board with whatever Mads does