A summer wardrobe staple: The unstructured jacket
Warm weather can throw a spanner in your plans if you like to look sharp. But there is a way to look elegant and feel at ease in warm weather: the unstructured jacket.
By now you know about our bespoke and semi-bespoke jackets. You may even have a few, in which case, great choice. But if you live in a warm climate, where summer lingers for half of the year, then you’re going to need this other staple in your wardrobe too.
Just to refresh your memory, the bespoke jackets are supported by an inner canvas structure, which is key to how a jacket drapes on your body. There’s nothing that can rival the craftsmanship of bespoke suits. So think of the unstructured jacket as a complement, rather than competition.
What's an unstructured jacket?
An unstructured jacket is a very clever piece of tailoring. It uses minimal canvas, very thin lining, and a thin shoulder, so they feel light and flexible. Think more Pitti Uomo in hot summer days rather than Brad Pitt at the Oscars.
How is it different from the structured tailoring of bespoke suits? The word 'unstructured' can almost sound like it’s lacking something, but in this case, it’s deliberate, and it serves a clear purpose. There is no chest canvas piece, nor shoulder pads (or very thin ones), and the lining is either thin or minimal. That may sound almost like a shirt, but in the hands of a skilled tailor, you’ll get a perfect fit and shape, so you can move with ease
Does it look just as good? You be the judge.
Zink & Sons unstructured jacket
Pretty sharp, right?
It clearly has a softer appearance, but it's no less elegant. You also get a very modern look with the unstructured jacket. The minimalist canvas and lining lend it a slightly more sporty feel.
When and how to wear it?
In short, anytime. You can rock up for drinks at the pub in it and you’ll look sharp, but likely forget that you’re wearing a jacket. Perhaps it's more suited for a summer dinner on a yacht than your own wedding (though that could work too if you're getting married on the beach).
It’s also great for travel (now that we can leave our state). It folds easily and you can pair it with a tie and shirt for a more formal look, or with a t-shirt and jeans for a beach-side dinner. Your fashion call.
If you go for wool cloth, you’re getting a breathable, comfortable jacket. Not to mention the creases easily drop when you wear them.
The unstructured jacket effectively reinvents tailoring for warm weather and ease of movement. So if you ask us, the unstructured jacket is clearly a 21st-century wardrobe staple. Especially if you live in Sydney and you like to look sharp, yet feel like you could throw a lawn ball at short notice.