Help, Can't wear wool

[countryclubjoe]

Hi Folks

Can I get some recommendations. I enjoy great tailored vintage suits and blazers, however I cannot wear them due to the fact I am allergic to wool. I see so many great euro suits and blazers but the wool keeps me away.

I have some great blazers that are fully lined so that's not so horrible, however can't wear wool pants, I itch like crazy.

The linen and or cotton suits I have found just don't stand the test of time, most are beyond repair.

Any suggestions for me to look for material wise?

Best regards
Countryclubjoe

 

[Two Types]

What about rayon suits? I beleive they were popular back in the late 40s and 1950s. Or something in a cotton/rayon mix? They tend to be heavier than cotton or linen.

 

[Two Types]

Also, if wool trouser make you itch, why not have them fully lined in cotton?

 

[countryclubjoe]

Also, if wool trouser make you itch, why not have them fully lined in cotton?

Two Types, great suggestion, I will talk to my tailor about the cotton lining idea.
Best regards
Countryclubjoe

 

[countryclubjoe]

What about rayon suits? I beleive they were popular back in the late 40s and 1950s. Or something in a cotton/rayon mix? They tend to be heavier than cotton or linen.

Thank you for the suggestion, I'll keep an eye out for the material you suggested.
Thank you for your replies, both are great suggestions.
Best regards
Countryclubjoe

 

[Two Types]

My pleasure.

 

[Gin&Tonics]

If I'm not mistaken, silk was also a material that was used to make suits back in the day, athough not as common. More knowlegible Loungers than I will no doubt either confirm or deny this for you.

 

[Undertow]

Wool was used primarly due to its obvious durability and versatility.

If you're looking for "vintage" suiting alternatives to wool, you can find seersucker (cotton), silk, mohair and linen. Although Rayon was invented prior to the 1900's, it wasn't really used in clothing until the 1930's, and it wasn't nearly as durable as modern rayon until the 1950's when production was improved.

Rayon crepe was popular in women's clothing in the mid to late 30's and through the 60's. I haven't seen much vintage rayon suiting for men, but again, I'm sure there's someone on here who would know better.

If you're not concerned with "vintage" and you'd just like to have a nice suit, definitely consider Rayon as it can mimick wool, silk, linen and cotton. Regading durability, you're not going to find anything more durable than wool except maybe mohair, and you'll probably want to rub that on your arm for allergic reaction as it's essentially similar to wool.

Then there are the full synthetics like Polyester, Nylon, Acetate and Spandex (aka Lycra). I wouldn't spend too much gold on these as they are typically constructed quickly and poorly. They may be durable by the very nature of the fabric, but probably not well made, and thus less durable.

At a cost, I'm sure a tailor could line your trousers and jackets with something like muslin, which should at least be less expensive than staple cotton. Most modern suits are already lined with rayon or poly, and trousers are usually 1/2 lined to the knee, so I don't know that you would have to have much extra added.

 

[RM Bantista]

You might look for camel hair also, some folks allergic to wool can wear camel hair, usually just jackets though...
Cannot remember how to spell HSM's trademarked synthetic suiting (starts with a V). It was often used for summer suiting. One does see some 50's suits and later in that fabric. Works well.
Sorry for your trouble. Allergies can be a complete pain to live with.
Good hunting,
rudy

 

[DamianM]

Rayon. Lots and lots of Rayon. Depends on your size. it always does

 

[LolitaHaze]

I'm not joking here... but seriously, throw on some pantyhose or tights underneath. It helps me when I wear wool pants (I itch like crazy too). And don't get all freaked out because they are "ladies things". No one is going to see them. They will help.

 

[countryclubjoe]

Hi Folks
Thanks to all responders. Presently I prefer for blazers (100% silk from burberry and RL) I am found some great buys even tho not from the GE. I then match the blazers with pants of silk, poly and rayon. for a nice comfortable feel and great flexability.
I have some great suits from burberry, kiton and etro lined to the knee however I feel discomfort after a couple hours or if exposed to any heat for long periods of time. Nice cool nights are great however a crowed wedding reception could create an itchy situation for old countryclubjoe.
TIA for any new reply's. and thanks for the great suggestions.
Best regards
Countryclubjoe

 

[countryclubjoe]

I'm not joking here... but seriously, throw on some pantyhose or tights underneath. It helps me when I wear wool pants (I itch like crazy too). And don't get all freaked out because they are "ladies things". No one is going to see them. They will help.

Hi LolitaHaze, when Im out on the town in my best ETRO suit, I expect to be seen UNETROwed before the evening is finished.
While I thing your suggestion is good and somewhat mysterious, I enjoy ripping my clothing off in front of my lady of the evening.
However I may give your suggestion a try.
Best regards
Countryclubjoe

 

[LolitaHaze]

Hah! Love it... yeah... try it out on non romantic days!

ps You can cut the feet off if you choose...

 

[countryclubjoe]

hiLolitaHaze

You have given me some great idea. However I believe they will only live in my conservative mind.

I hear Wisconsin gets very cold in winter. Panty hose must come in handy/legly in your State.

LolitaHaze, thank you for your reply and putting a smile on my face.

Best regards

Countryclubjoe

 

[Two Types]

cotton long-johns should do the job

 

[Graemsay]

You could try one of the heavier cotton fabrics, such as moleskin, corduroy or even denim. I've got a suit made up of the latter, and it doesn't look like a pair of jeans.

I saw a fantastic summer suit by Timothy Everest once that used a pastel pink cashmere blend corduroy. But I'm not sure if that would set off your allergy.

 

[Baron Kurtz]

Though as unromantic as a garment could possibly be!

cotton long-johns should do the job

 

[Two Types]

Unromantic? Yes .... but not as unromantic as wearing a polyester suit.

 

[David Conwill]

Probably seven years ago I purchased a heavy cotton twill sport coat from J.C. Penny (St. John’s Bay). It has worn very well and the weight and drape is great.

I don’t say it’s period, but I always thought a full suit made in the material would look great and wear well. Better than the tissue-paper suiting most mainstream mens’ stores carry today.