How to Survive Durham’s Corduroy Season

Michaelmas season is here, and while Durham students are enjoying the final signs of summer, you’re bound to see the “Durham Uniform” switch from linen season to corduroy season. There is truly nothing more festive than a thick overcoat, alpaca-hair jumper, black leather loafers and a pair of cords. If you haven’t got some poor man’s velvet in your wardrobe yet, here’s Castle & Cloister’s emergency go-to guide for corduroy season.

ARKET

If by “best cords,” you’re looking for that perfect spot between high-quality and affordability, ARKET is a perfect place to start. With prices from £75-85, you will get yourself a high-quality, casual pair of 100% cotton corduroys which will both keep you warm and offer potentially just enough safety to attempt Chad’s tree. Don’t ask me how I know.

Filippa K

Perhaps a perfect accomplice to your festive Durmas getaway, Filippa K offers cords that you would likely find plastered on a DUCFS exec’s Instagram feed. While prices are above £200, it’s certainly worth the investment as these pieces are known to last a long time. If I were passed down a pair of these in 40 years, I’d be mad I didn’t have them sooner.

Samsøe Samsøe

At a price range between Filippa K and ARKET, you are getting yourself a very sturdy pair of cords which can be styled both casually and formally. Being a Danish brand, Samsøe Samsøe has kept its wearers feeling warm inside and out since 1993.

Weekday

Weekday is a brand that has seen a lot of attention in British media recently as more and more are finding about this legendary brand. A baggier and more casual vibe to ARKET, these corduroys are currently listed below £60 which is a strong bargain for the 100% quality they hold.

COTELE Paris

When shopping for corduroys, is there any better brand to purchase from than one which dedicates its craft to cords? Woven in France and made of organic cotton, there's a sale which puts these at a probably the best deal on this list.