One of the questions I receive a lot is around specific weights of fabrics. I always strive to build a fall range of outerwear that can address a sudden breezy day, or unexpected rain, which both can be really annoying if you are on the go and caught off-guard without the right piece on hand. I think it is easier as the season progresses with temperatures descending beyond bearable and we pull out our heavier, wool coats. November and beyond shroud’s most of us in a freeze, it is only natural that you want to feel warm and you really do not have the dilemma of choice: You just pick the warmest thing you have and cover up as much as possible! I do not miss those bone-chilling days of the North East when you want to be anywhere but outdoors, but even here in Dallas amongst a more moderate climate, there are a few days I grab my heavier coat. In Fall I thought about the truly transitional need and having lightweight to mid-weight available to address the weather and geographies alike.
Our Poly-Tech fabric is really quite lightweight and in Fall, I like to double it up using the fabric as both the external facing cloth and as the full lining. This gives a double layer of protection and a little more warmth than a spring version (which we tend to offer unlined and in a single layer version). This adds more protection in cool wind and forms an air-pocket between the layers which can keep you warm up to about 50-60’ day, depending on your preference. We applied this double-layer construction to our Field jacket, which I spoke about earlier this year, and love this rugged classic piece with just the right amount of authentic coolness married to a great practical jacket with all those pockets. The Hybrid Blazer in Poly-Tech is also offered with the option of fully lined – this has the same characteristics as the Field Jacket but with a cleaner more modern styling, and a great replacement for a blazer look without structured shoulder or chest.
This same fabric is also used in our vests and our Quilted Blazer with the difference that in these styles we add a layer of ultralight wadding that fills out the air pocket between the outer layer and inner layer creating the same thermal reaction as a comforter or duvet does on a warm and cozy bed. The same is true of any “filled” outerwear having the benefit of being perfect for late fall, cooler zones with 40’ days combining the lightweight fabric and construction that captures the heat from the body.
The Hybrid Blazer and Field Jacket available in the Loro Piana StormSystem fabric is a trademarked wool with a space-age membrane backing attached to the fabric. This adds a layer that seals the wool gaberdine against wind and rain whilst all the time letting the fabric breathe which is fundamental in a sealed fabric that otherwise would result in uncomfortable sweating with wear. Because the membrane isn’t a great look to the back of the fabric and is metallic color, I prefer to line these styles, which I feel add to the refined, understated luxury, I love to build into all of the collection. This choice of fabric gives a great option for a mid-season outerwear piece that can also work for those 40’ days.
I do love a vest, as a standalone go to over long sleeve shirts and knits but also what I like to call a “body-warmer”. Any of our vests layered under outerwear styles add instant warmth and also adds a rich styling to the front opening of any of our outerwear pieces. This too, I learned the hard way from being brought up in a country where the weather rarely cooperates. It is also a nod to equestrian style which offers endless inspiration to me and this season, not only in our shirt prints but also in our outerwear. From interesting closures, practical details, not least a touch of aristocratic chic.
