A henley inspired by chocolate.

We're always looking for rich, performance fabrics that don't look or feel like performance fabrics (like superheroes in disguise), and when we came across this color of 100% merino wool, we knew we'd hit the jackpot. It's a warm brown with accents of light brown and black - a neutral with depth! It reminds us of an espresso bean chocolate bar.

We took this chocolate-colored merino, which also happens to be moisture wicking, temperature regulating, and odor resistant, and let it shine in an elemental design. Not over-designing this piece was key. The v-neck shape is flattering but modest, and the buttons are bright but not distracting. We omitted traditional heavy cuffs and waistbands, and instead, chose a minimal stitch finish that allows the piece to elegantly end at the wrist and waist. 

The last bonus - machine washable. This fabric is so amazing that you won't actually have to wash it often, but when you do, it can easily join your other laundry (machine wash cold, tumble dry low).

The New Henley.

There's something about classic pieces that make them some of the most challenging and fun design projects. The elements are nuanced and have to be adjusted carefully with individuality while still honoring the original (kind of like a good song remake - more Gary Jules artistry, less Vanilla Ice rip-off*).  We've upgraded the commonly-found cotton henley with 100% New Zealand merino wool. We chose this fabric, not just for its odor-resistance and temperature regulation, but also because it's so rare to see this color green knitted with purple and gold. The result is a rich, warm blend that matches the sweetness of the design and gives that something "extra" to this piece. The v-neck shape was examined under a microscope by our design team - how to make the drop and opening flattering but not too shallow or too deep. And finally, the finishing stitches at the ends of the sleeves and bottom hem are kept simple and minimal so it's almost as if the fabric flows into where it meets your body.

*See Gary Jules's remake of "Mad World" by Tears for Fears, and we all know the Vanilla Ice "borrowing" of David Bowie and Freddie Mercury's "Under Pressure"