Ermenegildo Zegna’s (888.880.3462, www.zegna.com) use of smart-fabric technology—found in its Elements line of jackets, which use heat sensitivity to regulate body temperature, and in its collection of Cool Effect blazers, which are specially treated so that dark fabrics reflect the sun’s rays—has made the company a 21st-century pioneer. The family-owned firm has employed these and other innovations to create some of the designs in its intricately crafted, comprehensive menswear collection. Articles of clothing in this landmark line include an ultralightweight wool Couture suit that requires more than 33,000 stitches, an array of organically dyed Oasi Cashmere knits, and a jacket that incorporates detachable solar-heat panels to power a lithium battery for the purpose of charging personal electronics.
