Luxury Underwear: The Only 5 Brands You Need To Know
Words: Alex Woodhall
There was a time when us men were somewhat restricted in our choice of underwear. It was either boxers or briefs and neither were a particularly flattering option.
Things have moved on though and the scope of underwear has expanded tremendously. What we wear underneath is as important as what we wear over the top, and no longer a mere afterthought. Serious consideration has to go into the brands you choose to align your intimates with – and appearance is as critical as comfort. As always, only the best will do:
HAMILTON AND HARE
Taking their lead from prizefighters in the ring, Hamilton and Hare have reworked the classic boxer short into something much more contemporary than the baggy numbers of yesteryear. Their tailored boxer shorts are cut with precision akin to that of Savile Row; slim to the leg and in the finest two-ply cottons. Needless to say underwear doesn’t come much more stylish or comfortable.
Blue Chip Boxer Shorts, £32.00 from hamiltonandhare.com
DEREK ROSE
Family owned heritage label Derek Rose purveys some of the finest night, lounge and underwear to the most exclusive clients; think royalty, film stars and music legends. The British brand’s boxers are modern in fit, streamlined for a flattering shape and of the highest construction to ensure longevity. With a range of patterns to choose from alongside more neutral options, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Amalfi Modern Fit Boxer Shorts, £34.00 from derek-rose.com
HANRO
Hanro of Switzerland favour a simplistic approach to design that’s summarised by their keen eye for detail. Their underwear has a highly luxurious feel with the silk-modal blend boxers, cashmere-silk long johns and cotton sensation boxer, made from a soft blend of mercerised cotton and elastane, just a few of a long list of highlights.
Cotton Sporty Boxer, £37.50 from hanro.co.uk
SUNSPEL
Steeped in history, Sunspel has been in the underwear business since 1860 and were the first to bring boxer shorts to British shores. The famed British label is world renowned for their ‘basics’ and with over 150 years of experience they’ve been forever honing their craft and now are outfitting the likes of Daniel Craig. Don’t forget to pick up a polo or two while you’re stocking up on skivvies.
Classic Boxer Short, £28,00 from sunspel.com
ZIMMERLI
Starting out as a small cottage industry manufacturing socks, the now internationally recognised Swiss brand Zimmerli has been supplying their luxurious underwear for well over a century. Each pair is handmade and makes use of only the finest and most expensive raw materials, complemented perfectly by modern technological advancements. Their designs are sleek, simple and unfussy, the emphasis is heavily placed on construction, certifying quality beyond measure.
Piqué Como Slip, POA from zimmerli.com
Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?
Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.
