Fabric focus: moleskin
A suede-like alternative that's a winner in colder weather.
When it comes to winter fabrics, moleskin ranks among the best. While it may not be the most well-known option for colder months, it has been gaining popularity in recent years, particularly in the form of trousers and overshirts – and for good reason. With its velvety texture and robust durability, moleskin is a standout choice for both style and practicality. Let’s explore what makes this fabric so special.
What is moleskin?
Despite the name, moleskin has nothing to do with the small, furry creatures. The fabric gets its name from its soft, brushed surface, which mimics the feel of mole fur. As a member of the fustian family, moleskin shares similarities with corduroy in its dense weave, but without the signature ridges. This tight construction makes it an excellent option for winter wear.
Historically, moleskin was valued for its practicality, favoured by workers and farmers across Europe for its thick, durable weave that provided protection against harsh weather. Over time, however, the fabric evolved from functional workwear into a stylish staple, a role it continues to play today.
Beyond its ruggedness, moleskin is celebrated for its warmth, breathability, and incredibly soft hand-feel. It also absorbs dye exceptionally well, resulting in deep, rich colours that stay vibrant and resist fading over time.
How to style moleskin
Our tailored take on moleskin makes it easy to create outfits for work and weekend, all while still maintaining a level of smart.
Crafted from Italian cotton hailing from the renowned Emmetex mill, our moleskin trousers are a cold weather alternative to traditional tailored trousers, with a soft hand-feel for extra comfort. With neutral tones, they also act as a great base layer for building winter looks. For a smart-casual vibe, combine with a merino roll-neck or a chunky knit in a similar colour for a tonal look – the different textures will compliment each other and offer a sophisticated, tactile quality to the outfit.
Our moleskin jackets and overshirts bring a rugged, outdoorsy charm to your wardrobe. Perfect for layering, they’re ideal over lightweight knits in autumn, and work just as well over thicker knits as winter sets in. While versatile enough to wear year-round, they truly shine in colder months when warmth and style are equally essential.
