Norman Hilton Spring/Summer ’11

“The character and quality of the Norman Hilton jacket result from relentless specialization in the art of tailoring a sportscoat. Its creators have never been concerned with suits, tuxedos, topcoats, nor other models and styles. From the start, they have simply tried to make an outstanding sportscoat.

The craftsmen who tailor the coat have been inspired with a deep feeling for its proper softness and styling. Years of unhurried specialization have given them their priceless knack for achieving the unique effect you see and feel when you slip it on.

The various Hilton jacket models show a quiet smart taste always in evidence at international resorts and classic sporting events. At the same time, their basic good quality gives them the casual lived in look so universally appreciated by men.

The Hilton Jacket’s kind of soft tailoring is really at home in fine tweeds. It brings out the rugged beauty of Scotland’s magnificent Shetlands and cashmeres and fits you with the relaxed comfort of an old pair of slippers.”

–Norman Hilton, circa 1955

It is as true now as it was then. Buying a Norman Hilton sport coat is like taking a trip back in time to a place where quality determined the value of garments rather than the brand name or logo. I’ve been working with Nick Hilton on these jackets since the re-launch of his father’s brand in early fall. For Spring ’11, the silhouette of the jacket has been altered in order to slim down the profile slightly while still retaining the ease of wearability that they are known for. The cut is still based off of an original Norman Hilton pattern from 1963, complete with all the details like unpadded shoulders, an undarted front, a throat latch, and the famous 3/2 notch lapel roll.

This spring, we have released the Hilton Jacket in five different fabrics: Navy hopsack, oatmeal linen, tan wool/linen herringbone blend, and authentic Indian Matka silk in navy and sand. Each of the jackets are extremely light weight, which makes them perfect for the warmer weather and casual wear. The navy hopsack and tan herringbone fabrics are essentials to any men’s spring wardrobe, and the linen and Matka silk jackets are the kind of pieces that can make your closet unique. Matka silk may be new to many, but it’s a raw silk which is very textured and very breathable–making it a top choice for spring and summer sportswear.

The jackets cost $695 and are available on the Norman Hilton website.