Matt and smooth on one side, soft and silky on the other, this Oriental fabric, imported into Europe by the Italians in the 14th century, was then made in silk and remained essentially a luxury product until the end of the 19th century. Used to make workman’s trousers in a ribbed version known as corduroy, the king’s fabric was democratised and earned its stripes as both a mainstream and prestigious material.
Waistcoat
Since its inception in the 18th century, this descendent of the doublet has lost its sleeves and few centimetres, but has preserved a certain refinement. Worn under a jacket, it becomes the capital element of a man’s three-piece suit.