Words: Josh Lee
In association with:
This summer, by and large, has been a pretty underwhelming period in the UK, with months of dull grey only occasionally broken up by the odd flash of sun. However, with the changing of the seasons, we’re finding the positives, mainly in the fact that this is a key opportunity in the year to refresh the wardrobe.
Émigré – the apparel, accessories and bags brand that dresses the modern-day travelling professional – has been one of our favourite labels we’ve discovered in recent times, and, in a rather timely manner, the venture has released a new collection, one which comprises even more staples for the on-the-go worker.
Launched two years ago by Ralph Thoma and Thanh Hung Trinh and a tight team that could draw upon years of expertise in the technical- and tailored-apparel sector, Émigré has proven a stylish antidote to the pain points experienced by the 21st-century commuter, whether he’s travelling short- or long-haul. Refined designs; subtle, versatile colourways; contemporary cuts; and well-considered detailing are the key features defining each of the brand’s items, minimising the fuss that comes with moving from country to country, station to station, hotel room to board room.
Below, we take a closer look at the latest designs.
Aviation Jacket
Starting from the top, Émigré’s Aviation Jacket – available in Nordic Blue and Mountain View colourways – is the brand’s version of the menswear winner that’s beloved for its clean, timeless lines and versatility. Classic hallmarks such as the ribbed collar, cuffs and hem are all there, and the shell fabric – made out of 100% recycled Italian polyester – creates a sturdy barrier between the wearer and the elements. A classic fit also ensures the piece is easy to move in.
Transit Half Zip
Fitting snugly underneath the Aviation Jacket is this layering essential, produced from a mid-weight organic cotton blend (the four-way stretch and the saddle shoulder construction enhances the comfort). It’s a workhorse of an item, as it can also be worn under an Émigré Travel Ponte Blazer for a dressed-up look. A concealed rear zipper helps stow away small items when in transit. (The Pearl Blue option will be available in October.)
Shawl Neck Popover
We rather like this piece as it has the sleek silhouette of a pullover while its shawl neck not only offers a bit of considered detailing, but also protects the area from the autumn-winter winds. It, too, is made from a four-way stretch blend for enhanced movement, and the rather nifty zipper on the right-hand side is the entryway to an internal kangaroo pocket – offering, yet again, another storage option for earphones, passport, wallet or smart device.
Ponte Travel Trouser
Creating a solid baseline is the Ponte Travel Trouser, a contemporary take on the traditional dress pant that offers the comfort of sweatpants and the elegance of suit trousers. The real boon is that its premium organic cotton blend offers a bit of stretch (which makes the flight or train ride a touch more bearable), is resistant to wrinkles and retains its shape after washes, meaning that you can arrive to the boardroom in pristine condition. The tailored fit bolsters the elegant feel, and it’s best worn with the Travel Ponte Blazer for a complete look, or with the Aviation Jacket for a contrasting mix of smart and dressed-down.
One Pocket Travel Tee
Moving onto the lighter side of things, the One Pocket Travel Tee, crafted from a super-soft premium organic cotton fabric – makes for a fine foundation – whether worn solo or as an ensemble’s base layer – as it comes in two neutral options (black and white), has a tailored profile, and the engineered side seams help retain the sleek appearance. The key draw, however, is the angled patch pocket with zipper, a feature rarely seen on this type of garment, and one that is another solution for putting items away and keeping your hands free of clutter.
Travel Tee
It’s worth picking up a handful of Travel Tees and putting them on rotate throughout the year – featherweight (meaning incredibly easy to pack and shoulder), with a clean crewneck style, it’s an even more minimalist creation than its chest-pocket counterpart. Best worn under the Transit Half Zip for relaxed meetings, or under the Cotton Oxford Shirt for after-work libations.
Water Bottle
Finally, whether hitting the treadmill or 30,000ft in the air, constant hydration is a necessity for the worker on the move. The Water Bottle – made in tandem with the design-conscious drinkware brand Miir – offers a sleek, elegant source for this. It’s defined by its stainless-steel body, and the leakproof lid nixes spills, meanwhile the Thermo 3D® double-wall vacuum insulation ensures hot drinks remain hot and cold drinks remain cold for hours. Its slim build means it can slip easily into a backpack or tote.
Want more from Émigré? Read about its backstory…
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