THE JOURNAL

We’re used to brands flitting between varied (and seemingly arbitrary) inspirations whenever a new season rolls around. The colour-drenched paintings of Mr Jean-Michel Basquiat that inspire a bold spring palette may be replaced by stark black-and-white photographs of 1970s punks on winter’s mood board, for example. For AMI PARIS founder Mr Alexandre Mattiussi, it seems that Mr Ernest Hemingway’s description of the French capital as “a moveable feast” rings true. For the past 10 years, the designer’s influences have remained loyal to the City of Light. It’s a particularly Gallic type of nonchalance that drives each design, which Mr Mattiussi describes in just three words: relaxed, authentic and friendly.
As Mr Mattiussi continues to tell his Parisian story through each collection, the things we associate with classic Parisian style continue to crop up, most notably it’s timeless appeal. Here are 10 pieces from the latest drop that promise to slot into your existing wardrobe and rack up some serious mileage.
01.
The logo cardigan

What would a collection inspired by Paris be without a little romance? This cardigan is detailed with the label’s Ami de Cœur motif in vibrant red threads. Mr Mattiussi even uses the emblem to sign off cards and notes he sends to loved ones.
02.
The striped T-shirt

An AMI PARIS line-up wouldn’t be complete without some Breton stripes. Rather than traditional navy and white, however, this jersey T-shirt is emblazoned with red and black lines. Why reinvent the wheel?
03.
The smart black trousers

04.
The almost-oversized flannel shirt

If you constantly wonder how some men manage to pull off oversized clothes while you end up looking like you’ve borrowed something from your dad, let us tell you the key. It’s all about a great fit. This checked flannel shirt is cut with exactly the right proportions so it’s loose and slouchy without swamping you. The virgin wool is heavy and weighty, so it hangs just right.
05.
The spring polo

Dress-down Fridays at the office may be a distant memory, but they will return and you’ll need a fresh polo shirt at the ready. This green one is fittingly spring-like and pops nicely against the signature preppy embroidery.
06.
The classic bomber

When looking for wardrobe workhorses, keep versatility in mind. One of the things we appreciate about bomber jackets is that you can wear them on a date (where the heart embroidery may just bring you luck) or when meeting up with friends. And friendship is integral to this brand, “ami” being French for friend_._
07.
The comfy hoodie

08.
The slim jeans

Thanks to the dark wash and slim fit, these are the kind of jeans we can imagine any Frenchman walking around the coolest arrondissements of Paris in. They’ll look just as good with sneakers as they will a smarter shoe. Basically, they’ll go with anything.
09.
The baseball cap

On those days when you don’t want to make too much effort or waste too much time in front of the mirror, but you do want to head out for a stroll, consider a baseball cap. It’ll cover for the fact you chose to hit the snooze button again or haven’t managed to get to a barber since lockdown 1.0.
10.
The shearling jacket

This flight jacket, with its fuzzy shearling collar, is like a great big hug. It’s perfect for chilly evenings in beer gardens, and we hope there are quite a few of those on the horizon.