Elite Traveler March-April 2015

DISCOVER

elite traveler MAR/APR 2015 ISSUE 2 42

Men’s style

Loro Piana, New Regatta

Technical merit The rise and rise of audacious outdoor pursuits have seen a concomitant evolution in next-generation fabrics that keep the wearer warm and dry while they risk life, limb and insurance policy excesses. These research advances have now inevitably crossed over into the menswear domain where, importantly, style no longer has to be constrained by the limitations of performance materials. Take Moncler, whose latest Grenoble collection features fully waterproof nappa detailing, structural heat-bonded inserts and reinforced zips in its lightweight quilted jackets. Similarly, Loro Piana’s patented Wind Storm

Moncler, Antifer

System technology ensures that its New Regatta jacket – designed for the Italian label’s annual superyacht festival, but equally suited to dry land – is both waterproof and wind-resistant thanks to a unique, breathable three-layer microfiber. Yet it is Z Zegna that has embraced this pioneering approach to the max, its new season “tech-luxe” collection referencing what it calls “tailoring meets sportswear”, a full wardrobe – including, naturally, fashionable trainers – that neatly blends practicality and elegance through its exclusive high-tech fabrics. This also extends into suiting via the Milanese tailor’s 100 per cent superfine Techmerino wool – a material that can be worn next to the skin if desired, to benefit from its heat-retaining and moisture- wicking properties – although we will be keeping our shirts on.

Words Henry Farrar-Hockley. Photos style.com Z Zegna, in Techmerino

Moncler, St Etienne