Cifonelli Style

One thing that struck me during my visit to Cifonelli in Paris last month was that the work rooms were full of conservative suits in process but the showroom models were beautifully detailed odd jackets rather than suits. I neglected to ask why this was so, but I'll guess it's to demonstrate that the firm can execute more than navy blue double breasteds.

For example, the pictured jacket is a modern version of a hunting coat in lightweight tweed with a half lining. The four button front can be closed completely to keep out the wind and there's leather under the collar and at the ends of the sleeves because both are meant to be turned up.

The coat is impeccably finished, with a yoke across the back, beautifully buffed seams and a zippered ticket pocket.

The blue jacket is another lightweight, unvented coat. This one has a one button front with buttoning patch pockets. It's perhaps a little too aggressively styled for my taste, but it wouldn't be at all out of place in Paris.


The inside of the half lined blue jacket shows the attention to detail that was evident in everything I saw.

When you are next in Paris, make the trip to Rue Marbeuf. Go through the unmarked doors to the left of Cifonelli's street level retail shop and up the stairs to the second floor fitting room. As Le Guide Michelin would say, it's worth the journey.