Choppin & Lodge cotton suit

I've learnt two things about cotton suits - or gabardine, to be more precise.

First, it is an achingly comfortable cloth. The trousers, in particular, are soft and forgiving yet have a smooth finish that makes them smarter than corduroy or moleskin. I plan to have more casual trousers made in gabardine for next summer. It is more comfortable and versatile than linen (though perhaps less formal).

Second, cotton has no give. You don't realise how much stretch worsted wool has until until you wear cotton. The jacket is made to the same pattern as my other suits from Graham Browne, yet it feels tight whenever I'm moving or have a hand in the trouser pocket. James, the new front of house at Anderson & Sheppard, told me he dislikes cotton because you constantly feel like you're fighting against it. I know what he means now.

While this is not an insignificant disadvantage, I love this suit; I feel grateful to Richard of Choppin & Lodge for encouraging me to try it. It has been worn four of five times and already feels like an old friend. It goes well with knitwear, even just a polo-collared sweater, and received more notice from my wife than any suit I have got in years. I would actually wear this at the weekend, where I wouldn't wear a flannel or tweed suit (a jacket at most). It feels like a knock-around suit worthy of the name. 

The shirt lining to the inside works well - it is a nice little touch of flair. But lining the arms in it was a silly idea. Shirt sleeves stick worse to that than they would have done if it was unlined. So the lining will be replaced.

Finally, the photo. I can only apologise for the photo. One of these days I'll stop looking like a numpty, my arms stapled to my side. Thanks Richard, by the way, for finding just enough glare to remove all the hair on the top of my head.

Previous post on the making of the suit here.

Contact Choppin & Lodge from their website. Suit cost £875. Oh, and if anyone's interested: white shirt from Turnbull & Asser, grey one-piece tie from Kiton, white linen handkerchief from Simonnot Goddard.