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Mr Marvis perfects the art of packing light
From trousers and shirts to shorts and shackets, Mr Marvis’ linen collection makes warm-weather dressing easier and breezier than ever before…
- Words: Jonathan Wells
Packing light: it’s easier said than done. Especially when you factor in the endless airline restrictions, the hidden costs and catches they seem to zip and buckle into our baggage allowances these days. A fraction of a kilogram here, a half-inch extra there and suddenly we’ve tipped the scales — and opened our wallets. Bye-bye, pre-flight pints. Adios, spur-of-the-moment upgrade.
But we’ve got good news. Whether you’re flying to Amsterdam or Antigua this summer, Mr Marvis makes it easy to pack light. You can still pack your usual shorts, shirts and trousers — but in linen, they weigh just a shade of your usual warm-weather wardrobe.
The brand, which itself started-up in the Dutch capital a decade ago, has spent ten trimly tailored years perfecting the art of trouser design. And now, in this easy, breezy fabric, their trousers take on a fresh versatility. Throw in a couple more breathable, hard-working pieces, and you’ve got as lightweight a carry-on capsule as you could possibly hope for. Looks like those pints are back on the menu…
Looking for tropic-ready trousers? ‘The Linens’ always keep their cool
Well, where else would we start? When it comes to trousers, you can always trust Mr Marvis — and that goes double when the temperatures start to soar. The Linens are as smartly cut and sophisticated as any of the brand's celebrated strides. But, cut from 70% linen and 30% cotton, and fitted with an elasticated waistband, two adjustable drawstrings and a double-button front closure, they're comfortable enough for even the harshest of heatwaves.
Available in 14 different colours, we've picked our favourites for the summer months, starting with the suitably fresh 'Antarctics' — an icy blue guaranteed to keep you cool. There's also the 'Coconuts', a classy off-white option with a distinctly tropical feel. Or, for a versatile mid-tone, try the 'Pebbles', ideal for stony beach strolls and airport lounges alike.
Want the perfect warm-weather staple? ‘The Linen Shirt’ delivers
It's a classic — and we're sure you own a fair few already. But does your go-to linen shirt feature rakish pleated cuffs, a box pleat at the back and engraved pearl-look buttons? We didn't think so. Cut in a floaty, breezy regular fit and available in sizes XS to 3XL, this summer staple from Mr Marvis has all the beach-bound bases covered.
There are also a scorching 19 designs to choose from. We'd start with stripes: the 'Schooners' design takes its name from both the sleek sailing vessel and the medium-sized beer glass — two things that are equally welcome on a sizzling summer's day. Alternatively, for a pop of colour, the new 'Rubies' colourway will turn heads from beach bar to boulevard. And for a touch of British restraint, the all-white 'Wimbledons' is an essential that goes with just about everything.
‘The Short Linens’ from Mr Marvis are a cut above the rest
Linen shorts sometimes miss the mark. In pursuit of comfort, they can come off baggy, ill-fitting and easily creased. But Mr Marvis has tweaked the traditional design, opting for a mid-length cut with an above-the-knee hemline and a sleek straight fit. That Velcro back welt pocket is also remarkably handy — wherever your adventures may take you this summer.
Speaking of which, the smartly tailored nature of these shorts makes them ideal for city breaks — especially if you pick up the fittingly urban ‘Avenues’ colourway, with just a whisper of blue woven into the mix. For a touch of heatwave haute couture, you could always splash out on the ‘Cosmic Pinstripe’ pattern, ideal for dressing up your down days. Or, if you’re just chilling out, take a sip of the ‘Milkshakes’, with their double drawstring and a handsome hint of pink.
For a layering piece that works beyond summer, look no further than ’The Linen Shacket’
In what may be the masterstroke of Mr Marvis’ linen collection, this overshirt-style shacket will not only keep you comfortable during cool summer evenings — but also beyond, into autumn. Made from a linen and organic cotton blend, it’s the perfect piece for layering, and features a shirt collar, half-lined design and four pockets (two chest patch and two side).
This one’s only available in half a dozen designs and colours, but each has been chosen for versatility and easy styling. The ‘Coconuts Pinstripe’ is light enough in both colour and weight to be a reliable travelling companion this summer, while the ‘Cosmic’ offers a classic navy option with brown buttons and plenty of outfit-spanning potential. But our favourite? The ‘Jefes’, a grey-green shade that suggests you’re a man of action — whether you’re trekking through a tropical jungle or sinking your fifth Mai-Tai at a beach bar…
Want more from Mr Marvis? Here’s why the brand’s SS26 resortwear collection is a range without rival…
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