THE JOURNAL

Compromises are never easy – and that’s why Loro Piana’s new collection makes us happy. This past year, comfort has rocketed up the list of what we want from new clothes – ranking somewhere above versatility, functionality and longevity – but this slower, more focused approach to fashion doesn’t mean we’re ready to give up on style, throw in the towel on the latest trends or surrender sophistication in favour of an elasticated waistband (although, they are pretty great).
What Loro Piana has consistently demonstrated since it was founded in 1924 is that you can feel at ease in soft, natural fabrics and relaxed, timeless cuts without having to concede joyful colours or technical treatments. To prove it, here are 10 wardrobe upgrades from the Italian brand’s latest collection that tick all the right boxes.
01.
The accent sweater

Understated, muted colours are the backbone of any well-edited wardrobe. However, it’s also essential to have a few bold, uplifting colours in the mix that’ll bolster the neutrals in your closet and, bonus, perhaps put you in a better mood. That’s where this rather rusty orange sweater comes into play, though we also have it in green, if that’s more your cup of tea.
02.
The trusty trousers

Those wear-with-everything neutrals we just mentioned? Here they are. Few style staples are more reliable than beige trousers in a slim cut. This pair gets added bonus points because the stretchy cotton has been gently brushed to make it feel extra soft. Oh.
03.
The wrinkled shirt

Wrinkles happen to us all, and that’s exactly what you need to remember with this summery striped shirt. Forget spending ages pressing it with misguided hopes that it’ll stay neat for longer than a minute – simply embrace the summery crumples and creases that’ll inevitably form as the day goes on. In fact, instead of whipping out an iron, which could easily damage the lightweight linen fabric, it’s best to hang it up next to a hot shower before slipping it on.
04.
The technical cap

ICYMI, we made a big deal about technical everyday fabrics in our spring trend report. If you weren’t listening closely, consider this a gentle reminder. Stepping up to the plate is Loro Piana’s baseball cap that’s made from its innovative (and trademarked) Storm System® fabric. A hit since 1994, the specially developed, ultra-lightweight material is treated with a protective “shield” that repels rain, wind, dirt and stains. Clever, right?
05.
The relaxed bomber jacket

Meet the camp-collar shirt’s more grown-up cousin – same vibes at the neck region, just more sophisticated and minimalist in shape and tone. Spot on for summer, this bomber jacket is more relaxed and breathable than most, yet it still packs a refined punch thanks to carefully sourced linen, a classic checked lining and neat buttons.
06.
The colour-pop polo

In its pursuit of excellence, Loro Piana really does have the basics down. A nod to styles traditionally worn sailing, this popping polo is cut from classic cotton-pique (that always washes well) and will go nicely with your favourite jeans, chinos or shorts. Why not match some box-fresh sneakers to the white tipping, too? Easy peasy.
07.
The seaside shoes

A seaside walk ending with a nice cold beer (or two) sounds pretty heavenly right about now, doesn’t it? Well, you’ll be needing these for such strolls. The hand-woven jute is reinforced with rubber for practicality and the heel collapses, which is a welcome touch on extra hot days.
08.
The summery scarf

The words “summer” and “scarf” don’t often come in the same sentence, but linen accessories such as this one add an elegant and considered finishing touch to your outfit – and not to mention they come in somewhat handy when the weather is a bit temperamental.
09.
The two-for-one gilet

Whether you wear it on the sportier side or with the super plush cashmere facing out, this reversible gilet adds an extra dose of warmth and pairs with plenty. It solidifies the brand’s aim of making clothes that go well with previous collections, rather than outdating them.
10.
The cosy biker jacket

Leather biker jackets are all well and good, but they’re not the warmest of layers, are they? Breaking the mould, this modern spin is tailored from silky nubuck and lined with the label’s famously soft cashmere – and when we say soft, we mean soft. It basically feels like one great big hug.