Etro Mens Fall 2009 Clothing Collection

Fall brought about a step in a more fashion-restrained direction for Etro, especially when compared to the forest-inspired frivolities of last spring. But that's not saying that this latest collection from the fashion giant has become all staid and uptight. Kean Etro keeps his loose and relaxed theme going while exploring a deeper, more mature color palette.

The Look
Right from the get-go, it's obvious that red is a key color for this collection. The opening look: a black turtleneck and loose cut cuffed black pants were topped off by a calf-length printed coat and a beanie, both in vivid red. Almost two dozen other looks in the collection were highlighted by a similar color.

But this isn't the kind of childish fire engine red you'd see in a crayon box. The designer used variations of deeper reds, of wine colors and burgundies to keep the sophisticated vibe without seeming too blah. It's a strategy that's been used by numerous other names in men's fashion (particularly formal wear) like Ermenegildo Zegna.

Etro didn't stop at just colors or layering, as many other brands tend to do. The collection also plays around with patterns and prints, such as on the aforementioned coat. Abstract prints were on everything from the coats to the sweaters to the pants, enough to make you feel like you're looking at a walking modern art show. From stripes to circles to random geometric combinations, this collection has its fair share of it all.

Getting the Look
If your closet's full of Dolce & Gabbana- or Dsquared2-like clothing with ultra-fitted cuts and shapes, you'll probably have to do some shopping. Etro for fall fits well but not closely; with its long coats and generous cuts, the clothes do give a fashionable-yet-comfortable vibe. It's the season to literally cut your clothes some slack.

Fortunately, the collection's key color isn't that hard to find, even on department store clearance racks. Burgundy and wine have long been classic colors in men's fashion, but you may want to look for shades that are brighter than usual for this season. Move away from the safe almost-brown or almost-black colors and dare to wear those mysterious maroons and smoldering crimsons that add drama to the outfit.

It doesn't have to be the same kind of calf-length coat in the collection, as non-black and non-brown outerwear are hard to find. Try for a sweater or a turtleneck in some soft, drooping fabric. If you're lucky, you might even be able to find yourself a jacket or a suit in the color. The path of least commitment for the Etro look, however, involves gloves, scarves and beanies in the fashionable red of the season.

Wardrobe permitting, have at least one printed item in your outfit; extra credit if the print is also on the red item. It doesn't have to be anything to audacious, as even a humble plaid will do the trick. The important thing is to break up the solids in your outfit to dispel the old fuddy duddy look that an all-solid ensemble creates. Textures and simple patterns are also good ways to cheat if a nicely printed item can't be had for the season.