It seems that eveningwear is moving into the functional apparel sector with the launch by Marks and Spencer of a dinner suit and shirt with Coolmax as part of its winter 05/06 range.

The dinner suit is produced from an exclusive fabric manufactured by YunSA which is 30% wool, 20% polyester, and 50% Coolmax, thus offering breathability, thermoregulation and moisture management combined with comfort.

The London Philharmonic Orchestra recently put the new suit and shirts to the test, with male members of the orchestra wearing them during the summer season at Glyndebourne Festival Opera.

It gets incredibly hot in the pit,” said violinist Bob St John Wright, This suit feels half the weight of the usual tails we wear.” Percussionist Andy Barclay added, Having a washable suit is great – especially as we’re wearing them five nights a week in the summer.”