Prepare yourselves, gentlemen, for a collaboration that’s been brewing with a quiet intensity, promising to redefine your smart-casual wardrobe. The highly anticipated meeting of minds between Malloch’s and the venerable John Smedley has birthed something truly special: the Malloch’s x John Smedley Cromford Cotton Polo Shirt. And trust us, this isn’t just another polo; it’s an heirloom in the making.

Chris from Malloch’s, a self-confessed “huge fan of John Smedley for half my life,” has poured his lifelong admiration into this piece. His personal penchant for vintage John Smedley polos, particularly those sporting the traditional long-point collar, forms the very genesis of the Cromford. It’s this subtle, classic character that imbues the garment with an enduring, timeless appeal and a versatility that borders on sartorial wizardry. Whether you’re pairing it with sharp tailoring or simply elevating a relaxed weekend look, this polo effortlessly bridges the gap.

The Cromford Polo Shirt itself is a meticulous recreation, based on one of Chris’ cherished vintage Smedley finds. It boasts a perfectly fashioned collar and a three-button placket, secured with elegant fisheye Corozo nut buttons – a thoughtful nod to the authentic vintage aesthetic, with the buttons themselves sourced from the wonderful independent British button maker, Courtney & Co.

But the true star of the show is the fabric. We’re talking about a luxurious 30gg fine knit Sea Island Cotton, spun by John Smedley themselves at their iconic Matlock factory in England, a tradition they’ve proudly maintained since 1922.

For the uninitiated, Sea Island Cotton, or Gossypium barbadense, isn’t just any cotton. It’s quite simply the highest grade on the planet, and astonishingly, the rarest, accounting for less than 0.0004% of global cotton production. Its unique characteristics are what truly set it apart: incredibly breathable, naturally hypoallergenic, and unbelievably soft against the skin, thanks to its extra-long, super-fine fibres. This is cotton, but not as you know it.

And the name? “Cromford” is a respectful tip of the hat to the village adjacent to the Smedley factory, grounding the polo firmly in its rich British manufacturing heritage. Available in a discerning palette of Navy, Khaki Green, Brown, Light Grey, White, and French Navy, this 100% Sea Island Cotton masterpiece, priced at a rather agreeable £195, is made entirely in England.

If you’re seeking an essential that transcends seasonal trends and promises a lifetime of impeccable style, the Malloch’s x John Smedley Cromford Cotton Polo Shirt is your definitive answer.

Images: Alex Natt.