Dude! There's nothing wrong with an old school (and by that I mean where you actually went to school) cotton hoodie with that comfy fleece lining. But I hear you. Bringing casual basics to the next level with luxe fabrics is so hot right now. And these days it's getting easier and easier to find them. I'm rocking the Zadig & Voltaire version (HK$5,200; Pacific Place, Admiralty, tel: 2918 9522), which is a lightweight beige cashmere with the coolest black outline of a lightning bolt down the back, superhero-style. For something simpler, go to the master of minimalist, Cos, whose loose-fitting version in beige or grey with the classic front pocket/pouch is selling for the unbeatable price of HK$1,500 (Gateway Arcade, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, tel: 2117 9433).
I continue to be befuddled by this direction in menswear, as illustrated by Mr Dandy's comments. Is it a dressy or sportswear piece? It cannot be both. Regardless, I have discovered that Loro Piana has put out a rather modern silk and cashmere zip-up cardigan made in blocks of neutral colours (HK$14,100; Chater House, Central, tel: 2868 9623). Also, one of the finest Swiss underwear brands, Hanro, manufactures a cashmere and merino wool-blend "hoodie" of superior quality in light brown (HK$2,985;
www.mrporter.com). I was pleased to see its description recommends such an item for "unwinding at home". Take note.
My tip is don't do it. Unless, that is, you are referring to shearling, which is essentially leather taken from yearling lambs with the fur still attached. It is often associated with second-world-war fighter pilots' jackets, although Neanderthals are said to have favoured it, too. I am partial to the well-constructed, multipurpose shearling jackets and coats by the excellent Orvis brand, which boasts the World's Finest shearling coat (HK$22,490;
www.orvis.com) and the longer Bostonian merino shearling jacket (HK$27,145). The shearling Barn Coat in standard brown leather with white "fur" lining is now on sale for HK$7,360.
