smart casual gilet - Ochre Knitwear https://ochreknitwear.com online shop Sat, 18 Jul 2026 12:51:18 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.2 https://ochreknitwear.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/cropped-OCHRE-logo-32x32.png smart casual gilet - Ochre Knitwear https://ochreknitwear.com 32 32 James Men’s Merino Gilet https://ochreknitwear.com/product/james-mens-merino-gilet/ https://ochreknitwear.com/product/james-mens-merino-gilet/#respond Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:17:40 +0000 https://ochreknitwear.com/?post_type=product&p=66652 A refined men’s merino gilet knitted in 100% merino wool, with a full brass zip, ribbed stand collar, practical side pockets and washable synthetic suede trim. Its clean sleeveless shape adds warmth through the body while keeping the arms free, making James an adaptable layer over shirts, fine jumpers and casual tailoring.

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James Men’s Merino Gilet

James is a men’s merino gilet knitted from 100% merino wool, combining lightweight warmth with the clean structure of a sleeveless zip layer. Its regular shape sits comfortably over shirts and fine jumpers without adding unnecessary bulk through the arms.

A ribbed stand collar gives the neckline definition, while the full-length brass zip can be worn open, partly fastened or closed for additional coverage. Washable synthetic suede trim follows the zip and armholes, adding contrast and helping the edges retain a neat finish.

Two discreet side-entry pockets bring everyday practicality without interrupting the smooth front. Finished with a narrow straight hem, James works as a polished middle layer for work, travel, weekends and changeable weather.

James Features

  • 100% Merino Wool
  • Sleeveless regular-fit shape
  • Ribbed stand collar
  • Full-length brass zip fastening
  • Washable synthetic suede contrast trim
  • Contrast edging around the zip and armholes
  • Two discreet side-entry pockets
  • Smooth lightweight knit
  • Clean narrow hem finish
  • Designed for comfortable layered dressing

Measurements

SizeLengthChestArmhole
S/M66cm54cm26cm
M/L67cm58cm27cm
XL68cm62cm28cm

Please be aware that all of our knitted garments are handmade, so measurements may vary slightly. For the most reliable fit comparison, measure a well-fitting gilet laid flat.

Merino Wool Colour Chart

James is shown in Ink. Contact us to ask about current size availability, other merino colours or same-day dispatch options. We hold stock in our Arundel, Dartmouth and Lewes stores, but if your chosen option is not currently available, delivery may take up to 20 working days as each piece is made in our Kathmandu factory.

Silver Marl merino wool colour swatch for James gilet
Silver Marl
Ink merino wool colour swatch for James gilet
Ink
Fir Green merino wool colour swatch for James gilet
Fir Green
Ebony merino wool colour swatch for James gilet
Ebony
Dark Navy merino wool colour swatch for James gilet
Dark Navy
Black merino wool colour swatch for James gilet
Black

Why James Works as a Men’s Merino Gilet

  • The sleeveless design adds warmth through the body without sleeve bulk
  • 100% merino wool gives James a smooth, breathable handle
  • The full zip makes the layer easy to adjust throughout the day
  • A ribbed stand collar adds neat structure around the neckline
  • Synthetic suede trim strengthens the visual outline of the design
  • Two side-entry pockets add practical storage
  • The regular fit works over shirts, fine jumpers and roll necks

The collar is worked in a close vertical rib and rises gently around the neck. It can be left open for a softer neckline or zipped higher when additional coverage is useful.

A full-length brass zip creates a clean central line from the collar to the hem. Washable synthetic suede trim runs beside the zip and around each armhole, giving the edges contrast without making the gilet feel heavily decorated.

The zip pull has a tactile tab that is easy to handle, while the straight sleeveless shoulders allow shirts and lightweight knitwear to sit cleanly underneath.

James is knitted from 100% merino wool, a fine natural fibre valued for softness, breathability and comfortable insulation. As a 100% merino wool gilet, it concentrates warmth around the body while leaving the arms unrestricted.

The smooth knit is light enough to wear indoors and streamlined enough to sit beneath a coat or jacket. This makes James especially useful for commuting, travel and days when temperatures change between settings.

Explore more in our merino wool collection or learn about how our knitwear is made in Nepal.

James is available in S/M, M/L and XL. Chest widths increase from 54cm to 58cm and 62cm, providing progressively more room for layering.

The body length changes only slightly across the sizes, from 66cm to 67cm and 68cm. This keeps the gilet balanced rather than becoming excessively long in the larger size.

Armholes measure 26cm, 27cm and 28cm. When choosing a size, compare these measurements with a well-fitting gilet and consider the thickness of the shirt or jumper you plan to wear underneath.

For work, layer James over a crisp shirt or fine merino jumper with tailored trousers and leather shoes. The full zip and stand collar give the outfit more definition than a pullover vest.

For weekends, wear it over a long-sleeve T-shirt with denim, corduroy or chinos. Leaving the zip partly open keeps the look relaxed and shows the layer underneath.

James also works beneath a coat when extra body warmth is needed without adding bulk to the sleeves. Browse more men’s knitwear or read our knit gilet layering guide.

To protect James’s knit, zip and synthetic suede trim, we recommend gentle care:

  • Follow the garment care label first
  • Hand wash cool or dry clean as directed
  • Close the zip before washing
  • Use a mild wool detergent
  • Do not rub, twist or wring the gilet
  • Press excess water out carefully with a clean towel
  • Reshape the collar, armholes, pockets and hem while damp
  • Dry flat away from direct heat and strong sunlight
  • Store folded rather than hanging for long periods
  • Remove occasional pilling gently with a wool comb

Is James made from 100% merino wool?

Yes. The knitted body of James is made from 100% merino wool.

What is the contrast trim made from?

The contrasting edging is washable synthetic suede and runs around the zip and armholes.

Does James have pockets?

Yes. It has two discreet side-entry pockets positioned near the lower sides.

Is the zip full length?

Yes. A full-length brass zip runs from the stand collar to the hem.

How does the James gilet fit?

It has a clean regular fit designed to sit comfortably over shirts and lightweight knitwear.

What should I wear underneath a merino gilet?

A cotton shirt, long-sleeve T-shirt, fine roll neck or lightweight jumper will sit neatly beneath James.

Is a merino gilet useful indoors?

Yes. It adds warmth through the body while leaving the arms free, so it can feel more comfortable indoors than a full jumper.

How should I choose my size?

Compare the chest, length and armhole measurements with a gilet you already own, allowing room for the intended base layer.

How should James be stored?

Store it clean, dry and folded to protect the shoulders, collar and knitted body.

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