Robb Report Editor Explores the Rise of the Corduroy Suit in Menswear

In a personal essay for Robb Report, executive editor John Vorwald examines the resurgence of corduroy suits in contemporary menswear. Vorwald owns four corduroy suits from brands including Alex Mill, Ralph Lauren, J. Mueser, and Todd Snyder. He traces his initial purchase to a pair of wide-wale trousers, which led to a matching jacket and subsequent acquisitions. Corduroy, historically associated with schoolmasters and suburban dads, has recently become more supple and sophisticated. At Pitti Uomo in Florence and Milan Men's fashion week in January, designers such as Massimo Alba, Brett Johnson, Cesare Attolini, and Brunello Cucinelli showcased tailored corduroy. Daniel Craig wore a Massimo Alba corduroy suit in the James Bond film No Time to Die. Vorwald highlights the fabric's ability to soften formality and provide a subversive edge, making it suitable for both dressy and casual occasions. He notes specific garments like Brunello Cucinelli's frosted cotton corduroy blazer at $6,150 and J. Mueser's black corduroy jacket at $2,050. The essay concludes with Vorwald's anticipation of wearing his unworn mauve Todd Snyder suit, reflecting on corduroy's balance of conformity and rebellion.