Will you be wearing corduroy later this year?

The corduroy comeback is officially here. The fabric’s earliest ancestor was fustian, which was developed back in 200 BC in Fustat, Egypt. During the Medieval period, it soared in popularity as Italian merchants brought it back to Western Europe. The aristocracy loved it for its warmth.

What we would today recognise as corduroy was first seen in Manchester, England in the late 18th century. For the next 100 years, it was considered to be a fabric for the working class, until it was rediscovered by college students in the 1960s. These students traded in their denim and chinos and it continued to grow in popularity throughout the late 1970s and 1980s.

So why has corduroy continued to be “rediscovered” throughout history? It’s functional and luxurious at the same time. You can dress it up or dress it down. It’s easy to look after and still holds its shape. And it’s both economical and durable.

The fabric is made from twisted and woven fibres which lie in rows (cords) and form the texture. It feels velvety, making it soft yet durable. Throughout the centuries, it has often been used for men’s sporting and working clothing.

Corduroy has made another comeback this season, something which you can see at https://www.chums.co.uk/menswear. Right now, it’s trending for both men and women, with the suits being sent down the runway virtually twins for both sexes. Fashion inspired by the seventies is back with a vengeance, and this was when corduroy truly peaked in popularity.

Designers are being inspired by the textural, earthy quality of the fabric, and it’s no longer considered to be a material that looks unstylish, nerdy, or bulky. It’s now all over the runways and can be seen throughout the street style scene.

So how do you wear corduroy?

You can’t go wrong with a corduroy jacket, which is a convenient, easy way to introduce yourself to the material in Autumn and Winter. When you’re choosing colors, stick to neutrals so you can mix and match and add layers when necessary. While black is classic, tan and olive are also on-trend.

Corduroy shirts are also essential for the cooler weather. Swapping out cotton for corduroy will give your outfit more interest and texture. You can even wear it over a t-shirt for a casual look.

Corduroy trousers will make a statement, but it’s important to avoid going too slim or baggy.

How will you wear your corduroy? Leave a comment below.