The London Lounge

Since learning about the open weave attributes of H&S Crispaire, Minnis Fresco and the like, my attention has been focussed on these cloths for summer suitings. The best thing about open weave is that it allows for a heavier cloth to be worn in summer.

I was thumbing through a Lesser's 8/9 oz tropical worsted book recently. It reminded me of the soft hand that is almost always missing in open weave cloth. Open weave cloths are always a little coarse, and feels prickly in the heat of the summer, especially if trousers are unlined.

On the other hand, Lesser's tropical worsted is lighter, less porous, but has a softer hand that is less prickly in summer heat.

What do you gents favour from experience?

K - for all of the reasons stated I favour both. The Crispaire cloths are a bit coarse but that is their charm. I don't really find them prickly. I have two suits from the Lesser book that are among my most favoured. Facing a formal business meeting, I'd opt for the summer worsted.

Don't be surprised when other members give the same "I use 'em both", "horses for courses" answer. Have fun.

DDM

What ^ said, though I don't find the Crispaire any less suitable for business. The issue is more the color and appearance of the cloth than whether it is a fresco or a tropical worsted.