Our exclusive capsule collection from the well-turned-out New York designer.

MR PORTER and the US brand Theory go way back. If we could type that crossed fingers emoji to denote how “tight” we are, we would. But we are a very serious publication, so we will leave that for the WhatsApp stream. 

To be more specific, our first dalliance with the New York design behemoth was back in 2014 when it designed a collection of modern essentials just for us. Since Theory’s arrival on our site, the relationship has gone from strength to strength, and it has been an easy one to maintain. You see, not only are we a fan of the modern, easy staples that it bases its brand on. We also like the fact that it is partial to making things just for us. We like an exclusive capsule collection here at MR PORTER. We’re selfish like that. Well, not entirely selfish, because we would very much like to share these clothes with you.

Which brings us onto some rather relevant news. Because, as of today, we are happy to announce the arrival of a new collaboration with Theory, in the shape of a pre-SS19 capsule collection. 

This exclusive collaboration was set up to promote the Theory ethos, displayed through the brand’s modernised classics, which integrate a more considered approach to essential menswear styles for urban commute and work and highlight technical sport apparel details. Theory focuses on modern fabrics, premium mills, construction details with laser cutting, seam bonding and other technical functionality in unexpected ways.

We like to think that these new pieces will slip seamlessly into the wardrobe of any modern professional who knows how to relax at the weekend. In mostly subdued hues, they should work with many things you already own, and pieces you are yet to. And, as if to prove how versatile they are, we took the clothes out for a bit of a road test – with some other pieces from MR PORTER for good measure.

If you’d prefer something a little less formal and refined, something with a little more edge, try the checked shell hooded jacket, which will keep whatever autumn and winter can throw at you firmly at bay. Oh, and if you’re that way inclined, it has a detachable gilet – should you want to keep a layer on when you move inside. Again, pair this with some simple staples – a grey sweater, some dark trousers, and a pair of white, low-top Common Projects. Sorted.

Despite what you might think, not all simple black hoodies were created equal. Theory should know – it prides itself on the idea of perfecting wardrobe basics. And, one could argue, that is exactly what it has achieved with the ergonomic cotton-blend pique hoodie it made for us – with materials sourced from Italy and a laser-cut chest pocket. Keep it casual with a simple white tee from the same collection, and the easy-as-you-like stretch-jersey trousers from AW18.

The pre-SS19 collection Theory has designed for us is not all about planning for inclement weather, mind. Look at this lovely ribbed knitted polo shirt, for example. It’s probably a little weightier than other polos you have in your wardrobe, so you’ll get more wear out of it in the cooler months. Wear it with the Theory SS19 shell or Theory AW18 stretch-twill trousers and you’re good to go.

We love the “micro houndstooth” reversible shirt jacket in this look for various reasons. Firstly, well, the clue is in the name. It’s reversible and it’s a shirt and a jacket in one. Which, by our maths, makes it four pieces of clothing all at the same time. Talk about value. Worn atop a ribbed-knit sweater, also from the SS19 collection, some slim-fit shell trousers and a pair of Common Projects high-tops – you have a utilitarian yet stylish look for weekend or work.

Shop the MR PORTER X Theory collection here