Now if your like me, you are always on the look out for something that little bit special, an item/brand of clothing that not too many people will wear or know, and if they do, they will appreciate it. Ermenegildo Zegna is a fine italian fashion house. Zegna was initially founded in 1910 producing fine wool suits and is todays largest global producers in fine fabrics, manufacturing for labels such as Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent. It is still managed by the fourth generation of the Zegna family.One of the ranges which continues to catch my eye is the sport range. Constantly playing with designs and proportions to create a desired elegance. Their winter 09 range consists of some very nice gillets/warmers at present and a very nice range of jackets, using recyled products.
One of their most iconic pieces was the i-pod jacket from the 2006 spring summer electronic range (above), with its ipod compatible controls on the sleeve, allowing its user to store their mp3 player inside the jacket. The following season Zegna produced the Solar Jacket, an ingenious design with solar panels intergrated into the collar, allowing the suns energy to be converted into electricity, which then is stored in a concealed battery capable of charging your mobile phone or Ipod. These two products alone have stapled Zegna's exclusivity and value amongest the fashion elite.
All in all Zegna is a top end clothing empire and is rarely stocked in many stores, so if you do happen to come across anything then please admire whats on offer, purchase and feel happy in the knowledge that only you and a select few others know and understand what Ermenegildo Zegna is all about.
A Uk label that started 3 years ago in Nottingham with only a handful of items in their first collection. This small independent clothing label with its simple approach is now looked upon as an understated contemporary label alongside APC and Margaret Howell. Down to the hard work of two gentlemen and an ethos of homegrown manufacturing Albam has extended its portfolio to include all types from footwear to outerwear. Perhaps the most commen or well known piece from their latest collection is the fishermans cagoule which was available in some beautiful colours, namely apple green and orange being my favourite. Its simple design and large white ivory buttons contrasting againest the bold colour made this jacket stand out.
You can also keep updated on their progress via a blog which is great idea and a good source of knowing what is next in the pipeline from them and check out their press blog for inside information:
Intrigued to find out if the Grisport match Mephisto in terms of quality, durability and style. Now anybody who knows about a decent shoe and after something different that will last eternity will know Mephisto, namely rainbows are a sound purchase, and a decent price too, ranging from £80 to £120. These shoes are handmade in France in their original factory and are respected in Germany, Canada and Japan. not too recognised on these shores, but I have to say they are by far the most comfortable shoe i own. The rainbow is known and worn by most from the range, but there are some lovely alternatives. 
Look out for the gore-tex range, usually bit pricey but well worth it. part of that range includes the Sierra, a robust mid shoe which states internal airbag and handsewn Norwegian processes for strength and durability. I would put the Mephisto range up there with british heritage Clarks (natura), Finn Comfort, Jacoform and Redwing, all quality shoes in their own right.
