AI editor Squire understands the dilemma of living on the equatorial belt—you want to layer like a player, but it’s too bloody hot. So what does Squire recommend?
We’re climatically deprived in Singapore. So much so, that when temperatures took a sudden dip in January last year—the mercury hovering between 21 and 22 degrees Celsius for five days—it actually became a cause for celebration. Why? Because it gave us a chance to whip out the not-safe-for-Singapore jackets and outerwear that we typically reserve for our trips to Japan in spring.
Truth be told, it’s mostly layering that makes an outfit. It is possible to still look stylish in just a top and trousers, of course. But layering even one outerwear adds depth and is immediately more interesting, without trying too hard. The trick is finding the right kind of jackets so you’re not suffering in the heat.
If the suit has evolved to adapt to rising temperatures, so has the jacket. At the spring/summer 2019 shows, layering was seen on most of the collections by fashion houses.
While it’s not uncommon to send down models wearing multiple layers for the season, this time, the materials used were incredibly lightweight and in some cases, such as Dior Men, they were crafted in precious fabrics that are airy and soft.
Cottons, silks and even lightweight wools are the materials you should be gravitating towards. The latter might be a curious choice, but wool can be woven in a less dense manner such that it becomes incredibly breathable and thin.
In fact, wool is a great temperature regulator—it’ll keep you warm on a cold day, and cool on a hot day—and absorbs and wicks away moisture better than most fabrics. Just avoid those itchy, scratchy woollen fabrics.
No matter what lightweight jacket you end up with, it’s effectively outerwear; something you can easily remove when it gets too warm. And hey, what’s air-conditioning for, right?
AMI
A denim jacket is a staple and should be the default go-to when it comes to lightweight jackets. This workwear-inspired jacket by Ami is unlined, which reduces unnecessary weight and heat.
DIOR MEN
Constructed in silk organza, the bomber jackets at Dior Men personified Kim Jones’s soft approach for the fashion house. Paired with an equally lightweight T-shirt and cotton shorts, this is a prime example of how layering can make sense with the right fabrications.
ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA COUTURE
Showcasing its craftsmanship, Ermenegildo Zegna Couture presented an almost see-through blazer (there’s no way of hiding any poor construction). Completely unlined as well, this is one jacket that you most definitely wouldn’t be sweating in.
FENDI
Fendi approached lightweight jackets by introducing sportswear elements to a leather jacket. This particular jacket is designed with alternating panels of perforated leather, mesh and suede, taking breathability on a leather jacket to a new level.
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