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Hey everyone, welcome back to the blog! Here in sunny Los Angeles (though let’s be real, when isn’t it sunny?), and I’ve been on a serious quest to upgrade my everyday wardrobe. After years of cycling through fast-fashion basics that pill, fade, or just lose their shape after a few washes, I finally discovered Sunspel — the British heritage brand that’s been quietly perfecting luxury essentials since 1860. If you’re tired of settling for “good enough” tees, polos, and underwear, and you’re ready for pieces that feel like an investment in timeless style, then buckle up. Today, I’m diving deep into why sunspel.com has become my go-to for elevated basics that scream quiet luxury without the flashy logos. This is the kind of British elegance that fits perfectly into the LA lifestyle — effortless, refined, and built to last.
Sunspel’s story starts in Nottingham, England, way back in 1860, when Thomas A. Hill founded the company with a focus on innovative textiles. They pioneered the modern boxer short in the 1940s, turning athletic wear into everyday luxury, and they’ve been innovating ever since. But the real turning point for modern fans came in the 1950s when Peter Hill (the founder’s great-grandson) created the Riviera Polo Shirt. Tired of heavy, stuffy piqué polos that felt suffocating in the French Riviera heat, he drew on the brand’s lacemaking heritage to develop a revolutionary lightweight cotton mesh fabric — breathable, soft, and perfectly suited for warm-weather sophistication.
Fast-forward to 2006, and this iconic piece got its biggest spotlight yet. Oscar-winning costume designer Lindy Hemming approached Sunspel to dress Daniel Craig for his debut as James Bond in Casino Royale. They tailored the Riviera Polo to Craig’s exact measurements — slim fit, shorter sleeves for mobility — and suddenly, the world saw this understated polo on the biggest screen. That grey Riviera tee and the classic blue polo became synonymous with modern Bond style: confident, understated, and undeniably cool.
Here are some stunning shots of the Riviera Polo in action — notice how it drapes perfectly, looking sharp yet relaxed:
The Riviera Polo isn’t just a shirt; it’s a legend. Crafted from extra-long staple Supima cotton (traceable to its California origins), the unique warp-knit mesh structure makes it incredibly light and airy while maintaining that polished look. In 2025, with prices around $155 (often on sale for less), it’s still one of the best investments you can make in your wardrobe. I’ve worn mine from beach walks in Malibu to casual dinners in West Hollywood — it never wrinkles badly, breathes like a dream, and gets compliments every single time.
But Sunspel isn’t a one-hit wonder. Their Classic T-shirt is another staple that has redefined what a plain white tee can be. After over a century of perfecting cotton basics, they use premium long-staple cottons that feel impossibly soft against the skin. The fit is spot-on: not too boxy, not too tight — just right for layering or wearing solo.
Check out this clean, luxurious take on the classic crew-neck:
And here’s a closer look at the fabric quality — you can almost feel the smoothness through the screen:
These tees, priced around $98 (frequently discounted), are the foundation of a capsule wardrobe. I own them in white, navy, slate blue, and a few seasonal shades like pistachio and rust. They wash beautifully (inside out, cool cycle, air dry), hold their shape, and develop that perfect lived-in softness over time without ever looking sloppy.
For those chasing ultimate luxury, Sunspel offers pieces in Sea Island cotton — the rarest, finest cotton in the world, often compared to cashmere for its buttery feel. Their Sea Island T-shirts and shirts are next-level, with prices reflecting the exclusivity (think $300+), but they’re heirloom-quality.
Underwear is where Sunspel truly shines for everyday comfort. They invented the modern boxer short, and their classics — made from the softest cottons with thoughtful details like non-binding waistbands — are unbeatable. No bunching, no riding up, just pure comfort.
Here are a few examples of their timeless boxer briefs and classics:
The women’s line is equally impressive. From ribbed henleys and slash-neck tops to lambswool jumpers and relaxed loopback hoodies, everything maintains that same focus on quality fabrics and effortless silhouettes. In 2025, with more inclusive sizing and fresh colors, it’s perfect for LA’s casual-chic vibe — think oversized flannel shirts over tees for foggy mornings or cashmere polos for elevated weekends.
What I love most about Sunspel in 2025 is how it aligns with the current mood: quiet luxury, sustainability through longevity, and a rejection of disposable fashion. These aren’t trend pieces; they’re built to be worn for decades. The brand’s British craftsmanship — much of it still done in England — ensures every stitch counts. In a year where we’re all rethinking our closets post-holiday splurges, investing in Sunspel feels smart, not extravagant.
Whether you’re channeling your inner 007 with a Riviera Polo, building a foundation of perfect tees, or upgrading your underwear drawer to something genuinely comfortable, sunspel.com delivers. Free shipping on US orders, easy returns, and frequent sales make it accessible. Head over, grab a Classic T-shirt or Riviera Polo, and thank me later — your wardrobe (and your confidence) will thank you.
If you’re in LA or anywhere with year-round mild weather, these pieces are made for you. I’ve been living in mine since January, and they’re already my most-reached-for items. What’s your go-to Sunspel piece? Drop a comment below, and let’s chat luxury basics!
