Fittingly, the first garment sold at Hast (on 10 September 2012) was an elegant white poplin shirt. Back then, we were a single-product brand dedicated to this staple of menswear, determined to restore its former prestige. Wanting to introduce a well-crafted alternative to fast fashion, sitting comfortably between luxury and ready-to-wear, we designed a selection of high-end shirts, fairly priced and without middlemen. A decade on, this ambition remains unchanged, continuing to guide the creation of every piece we design to help you build a complete wardrobe.
As part of the capsule collection celebrating our tenth anniversary, a nod to our formal elegance roots felt only natural. For this occasion, we set out to create an ultra-premium shirt that is truly unique. A masterclass in refinement and delicacy. A study in precision and finesse. A masterpiece worthy of Gatsby's wardrobe, for those who recall the famous shirt scene in F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel.
The Giza cotton shirt, in a limited edition of 100 pieces, is all of this at once: a return to our roots, a tribute to exceptional craftsmanship and an ode to elegance. True to its name.
Everything you need to know about its construction?
There are things words struggle to capture, and the quality of the fabric chosen here is one of them. While subtle to the eye, the richness of this cloth is unmistakably felt under the fingers. And with good reason: it is a two-ply Egyptian Giza cotton poplin, one of the most luxurious weaves in existence. More precisely, it is a 120/2 fabric, the first number denoting yarn count and the second its ply. In our view, it is the finest balance of delicacy and durability you could wish for.
Renowned in the world of luxury shirtmaking, Giza cotton poplin (often nicknamed "Gatsby") is highly prized by tailors for its exceptional quality, supple and silky handle, unmatched softness and remarkable delicacy. Rare qualities that we were determined to make accessible to you.
For such a remarkable fabric, an equally distinguished cut and finishes were essential. We achieved this with a natural drape exuding grace and harmony. Cleverly understated, subtly tailored along the sides, gently curved at the hem to stay neatly tucked into trousers, elegantly shaped at the shoulder, finished with zampa di gallina stitched buttons and structured with a French placket that is as refined as it is clean, the Giza cotton shirt is, in our eyes, the purest expression of classic elegance.
Above all, the one-piece collar (or "One Piece Collar") with which we designed it is pure poetry. Cut—as the name suggests—from a single piece of fabric, this collar demands exceptional skill to construct. Unlike traditional collars set on a separate stand, this one has none and is cut in a single piece. Beyond the technical feat, the one-piece collar offers unmistakable charm: its line, its roll and its proportions have an allure you will not find anywhere else. Could we elevate the elegance even further? Yes, by hiding the collar buttons beneath the points. We did just that, ensuring an impeccable drape and an immaculate look for any occasion.
Formal elegance
Our Giza cotton shirt is the ultimate expression of formal elegance, and in our eyes, the eighth wonder of the world. Wear it exclusively with a suit or tuxedo—just as you would never pair opera pumps with sweatpants. This piece is a work of art and deserves to be treated as such.
For special occasions, weddings, cocktail parties and formal events, it will bring that touch of refinement to elevate your look with a touch of soul. Its immaculate white, shimmering subtly in the light thanks to the richness of the fabric, pairs effortlessly with any suit, from deep navies to pale greys, warm beiges and bolder shades. Worn with or without a tie, its one-piece collar effortlessly bridges the gap between smart and truly distinguished.
How to care for the Giza cotton shirt?
However beautiful it is, you will eventually have to take it off to wash it. Rest assured, care is straightforward: simply place it inside out in the washing machine (ideally inside a laundry bag) on a delicate cycle at 30°C and 600 rpm maximum. Don't forget to unbutton it completely to avoid strain on the seams. For drying, hang it on a wooden hanger so it starts to de-wrinkle naturally, but avoid tumble drying at all costs. Afterwards, a gentle iron (160 to 180°C maximum) will restore its original lustre and crispness. We recommend placing a clean pressing cloth between the iron and your shirt: with such a luxurious fabric, gentle care is always best.
