Today, we're talking about a wool fabric that doesn't look like wool. We're talking about a summer armor that has been dressing men of taste for nearly 120 years. We're talking about an iconic fabric that has its connections with the British Royal Family. We're talking about an absolutely sensational material that your servants wanted to offer you, something uncommon in the ready-to-wear sector.
Today we are talking about Her Majesty Fresco® wool.
What is Fresco® wool?
Before explaining what Fresco® wool is , it is important to state what it is not. It is neither the "tropical wool" nor the "dry wool" nor the "cold wool" that you can find here and there at random in stores.
These names all refer to airy fabrics made from wool fibers, but Fresco® is the result of patented technology - hence the trademark symbol that accompanies its sweet name.
Filed in 1907 by Martin Sons & Company (more on this later), this patent established strict criteria for making Fresco® authentic. Among other things, it must use wool fibers, combed and braided yarns using an extreme twisting process, and a plain weave.
For 118 years, only Martin Sons & Company and other subsidiaries of the Huddersfield Group have had the right to produce the original Fresco® , according to the registered recipe that forged its legend.
As for its name itself, it comes from the Italian "affresco" which literally means "in the fresh". It is a reference to fresco, the art of wall painting practiced on a still-wet coating to preserve the colors over time.
The nine panels of the Sistine Chapel ceiling, painted by Michelangelo, are a famous example. Credits: Archivo Fotografico Musei Vaticani
Why choose a Fresco® wool suit?
Combining the concepts of "wool" and "coolness" may seem strange, as this natural fiber is usually associated with the winter season. As counterintuitive as it may seem, the lightness of Fresco® is its main asset.
In particular, it is the openness of its weave that is the cause. Intentionally loose, its weave lets air through and promotes ventilation , a valuable characteristic when the thermostat is near the summits.
Choosing a Fresco® suit means having your cake and eating it too: the intrinsic thermoregulation of merino wool and the breathability of a well-ventilated, feather-light fabric. A truly life-changing alternative that dramatically enhances the formal season.
The icing on the cake is that Fresco® is highly durable, well-disciplined, and virtually wrinkle-free thanks to the high-twist process used in weaving. With its impeccable drape, subtle elegance, exceptional performance, and impeccable fit, it seems you've found the perfect suit for weddings, civil partnerships, and other summer celebrations.
Hardy Minnis, the legendary
A subsidiary of the Huddersfield Group—along with Martin Sons & Company— Hardy Minnis is responsible for the production of Fresco® today. Born from the merger of John G. Hardy and J&J Minnis in the late 1960s, it has established itself as an international leader in the textile sector.
It must be said that the merchants who founded this institution were themselves respected figures; John Hardy being one of the first purveyors of tweeds and shetlands in the Kingdom while the Minnis brothers were among the most established and renowned London drapers of the 19th century.
Moreover, the former held a Royal Warrant Appointment , an honorary mandate issued to companies that supply goods and services to the British Court. When the merger took place in 1969, Hardy Minnis inherited this prestigious mandate, which still crowns the current manufacturer of Fresco®.
Our Fresco ® blue wool suit
The flagship of our spring-summer 2025 collection , the navy Fresco® wool suit illustrates a constantly renewed commitment at Hast: to offer you exceptional fabrics , top-quality natural fibers and the finest European know-how.
And for good reason, offering a Fresco ® wool suit ready-to-wear is a source of pride coupled with a privilege: that of offering the general public a legendary fabric at the pinnacle of British excellence.
Barely lined, the jacket offers minimal structure that will keep you cool in the heat of summer. The shoulder line is fluid and flowing, offering a natural drape inspired by Neapolitan style. Meanwhile, the 8.5 cm lapels provide welcome body to the torso, shaping your bust with balance.
Down below it is A pair of trousers cut from the same 280gsm Fresco ® wool that will give you beautiful legs. With their straight cut, two pairs of pleats and 19.5cm leg opening, there's no doubt they'll combine comfort, delicacy and lightness like no other.
The final word
Ideal for dressing up for the special occasions that are sure to brighten up your summer, our Fresco ® suit, woven in England, is an exceptional suit that strikes with its versatility.
Assembled in accordance with the codes of tailoring art with the illustrious fabric of Maison Hardy Minnis, it will accompany you to the heart of the beautiful season thanks to its light and breathable canvas.
Wrinkle-resistant and durable, textured and disciplined, supple and airy, it is undoubtedly the prince of summer. A premium two-piece to wear matched or mismatched, which we offer you this year with a distinguished honor.
As always, it is available in our stores and on Hastparis.com , eager to dress you up every day of the week.