Linen on Linen

What I believe to be one of the most underrated and misunderstood fabrics, is undoubtedly one of my personal favourites. I won’t deny I have a passion for heavier textured winter fabrics as well, but there’s something unique to linen that makes me passionate about it. The ultimate Summer choice, this lightweight crinkled fabric is perfect to pull off intricate looks in the blistering heat, due to its breathability and unique fibers: and here is where opinions divide… Linen will always have a characteristic feel and crinkled look after wearing, which many consider rough and too relaxed or sloppy - for me, that’s just the beauty of it.

The unique charisma of a slightly wrinkled linen suit perfectly paired with horsebit loafers and unbuttoned shirt, it’s a hard one to match. Especially since nowadays ecru has given place to brighter shades and bolder patterns, allowing for endless possibilities of (un)polished elegance… As with all fabrics, quality linen comes at a price but there are a few affordable alternatives out there worth taking a look at, especially Zara: the Spanish giant produces not only some of the most original pieces but also with quite surprising quality. Both the vest and trousers feature a soft feel with just the right amount of roughness and stiffness to ensure a great fit (with some minor adjustments and tailoring of course). The intricately detailed vest pairs beautifully with the camo boat shoes while the rest of the look is toned down by a white dress shirt and navy pants.

Details: linen vest and pants by Zara, v-neck by Purificacion Garcia, dress shirt by Paul Smith, camo boat shoes by Asos, vintage floral pocket square, shades by Ray-Ban and watch by Daniel Wellington.

Model and Styling: Miguel Amaral Vieira

Source: beyondfabric

A Rugged Feel

I’ve stressed before the importance of fabric and fit when it comes to adapting to seasonal climate. When the temperature rises there’s one essential I can’t do without: linen. Be it in shorts, trousers, shirts or suits, this organic fabric is one of the best, yet most underrated Summer staples. People often avoid linen due to its delicate nature which easily wrinkles and creases with use, but make no mistake, that’s the beauty of it. This lightweight and breathable fabric is not meant to look pristine, instead it conveys personality and even a sprezzy feel to its wearer, through those “I don’t give a damn” wrinkles. I’d been looking for a pair of slim fitting linen trousers in a darker shade than the usual white or ecru, until I came across this navy version from Zara. Although I only have a few select pieces from the Spanish retailer, the quality of its linen garments is outstanding for the price and well worth taking a look. A few alterations later (cropped and cuffed) and they’ve become one of my heaviest rotated pieces this season.

Details: pale yellow oxford button down shirt by Our Legacy, navy linen trousers by Zara, sunglasses by Linda Farrow Luxe, club tie by Gentleman, tie bar by Tie Rack, leather braided belt by Acne, watch by Rolex and bracelet by street vendor. 

Model and Styling: Miguel Vieira

Photography: Rita Lino


Source: beyondfabric

Zara has really been stepping up its game as of lately. Although this washed DB blazer comes off as blatant Boglioli rip off, you’ll have a hard time finding a better option within this price range.
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Zara has really been stepping up its game as of lately. Although this washed DB blazer comes off as blatant Boglioli rip off, you’ll have a hard time finding a better option within this price range.