Michael Bastian has said that the inspiration for his F/W 2011 line for Gant was a cross-country ski gang, which is both hilarious and apt. Last season was preppy, naughty lacrosse boys (naughty, but not like Duke Lacrosse naughty)—so how perfect to look at cross country skiers for winter? The collection is a ribald, playful take on winter-wear, cords tucked into unlaced boots, rakish pullovers, cool flannels, puffy coats and thick woolen sweaters abounding.

As for these last items, when discussing the heritage trends, Bastian had told me at the GQ/CFDA Best New Menswear Designer awards (for which he was nominated), “How many snowflake sweaters does a guy need to have?” I guess the answer is, Just a few more. But that’s fine, and fitting with a collection that is as warm and snugly as it is hip and sexy.