Asket to launch final product
How many garments should an essential wardrobe contain? Opinions differ. Some may manage for quite a while with just three t-shirts_ two pairs of trousers_ a shirt/blouse and a sweater while others may last just two days with it.
Swedish slow fashion brand Asket has been thinking about this question for quite some time; in fact_ since it was founded ten years ago. The idea was to build a clothing brand that meets the need for a permanent wardrobe. With 50 pieces.
“From the beginning_ we have held that there is a natural limit to what belongs in a permanent wardrobe. Every garment must earn its place — for its enduring aesthetic relevance and everyday utility_” explains the brand in a statement.
Is Asket shutting shop?
The 50 pieces are now about to be completed. The last product_ a pair of wool trousers_ will be released in September_ and then that is it. There will be no new products. Does this mean Asket is shutting shop? Not at all. The label remains committed to sustainability and will continue to refine its collection of timeless essentials. “Its continuous refinement will remain a lifelong pursuit_” promises Asket.
“In the years ahead_ you will see thoughtful updates_ subtle evolutions and considered improvements across our deliberately limited range of 49 — soon 50 — menswear essentials_” the label adds.
The development of “timeless essentials”
According to Asket_ what is essential? Which 50 garments have earned their place? It began in 2015 with a white t-shirt_ now available in two weights and lengths. Shirts followed_ starting with the organic cotton Oxford shirt_ now also available in linen_ poplin_ flannel and denim. For colder days_ the organic cotton or wool overshirt. A polo shirt is also a must-have_ with long or short sleeves. For leisurewear: a loopback sweatshirt with matching pants in two lengths_ a hoodie_ with or without zip.
That is 18 products so far_ with knitwear_ pants_ jackets_ underwear and accessories still missing. There is a merino wool sweatshirt_ available as a quarter-zip_ turtleneck or polo shirt. There is also a merino wool cardigan_ a cashmere sweater and a heavy wool sweater for cold days.
In terms of coats_ Asket offers a short wool coat_ a car coat_ a field jacket_ a zip-up jacket and_ of course_ a denim jacket. This brings the number to 30 different products.
And the rest? Underwear (two styles)_ organic cotton or merino wool socks_ swim shorts_ a belt in three colours_ a cashmere scarf (also available oversized) and a beanie_ in wool or cashmere. Wait_ that is only 40 products.
What is missing? Pants. Denims in three fits_ chinos in two finishes and fits_ cotton or linen shorts and merino wool trousers_ so that every season is covered.
The wool trouser_ made from 100 percent merino wool and woven in Italy_ will arrive in September and can be pre-ordered now.
If one adds the womenswear collection_ which was introduced in 2021_ there are a few more products: the tank top_ which is also popular with men_ a slip dress and a slip skirt.