Lumina Clothing Company | Raleigh, NC, USA

You're always up for American brands that are committed to manufacturing their products here in the States, so when the folks at Lumina reached out, you were grateful for the opportunity to take a few of their pieces for a spin.  

Lumina is a Raleigh, North Carolina-based company composed of four young entrepreneurs whose professional backgrounds range from architecture to nuclear engineering. When they launched Lumina in 2009, their objective was to not only design and build clothes of superior quality, but to do so in a way that was "innately North Carolinian and [would] bolster the industries that were once so predominant in [the] state, but have fallen away, such as textiles, agriculture, and manufacturing." With a storefront in Raleigh, the ultimate goal is to have their entire operation in North Carolina. In the meantime, all products are manufactured in South Carolina, Chicago, or New York.   

The lightweight "Casual Poplin" shirt in purple gingham was perfect for the 80-degree afternoon you spent lounging, swimming, and luncheoning at Halekulani. At 5'9", you're sporting a size small, which you figure equates roughly to a 14.5" (neck)/32" (sleeve). The fit is spot-on--slim, but not Gitman Vintage micro. In other words, you can still move actively. You can see this shirt being a versatile all-rounder; it could just as easily be dressed up with blazer and tie.

Also in the mix are a bag and two ties. The Lumina x Parrott Market Tote is a collaboration with Parrott Canvas of Greenville, NC. It's a no-frills tote that's big enough to serve as an everyday carry. So far, you've had it on the beach and in the city. Work and play type stuff. The understated design features durable canvas duck and riveted leather straps. You expect it will wear in beautifully. The ties ("Alexander" and "Richmond") are classic, simple and clean. At 2 5/8" in width, they're right where you need them to be and, of course, solidly constructed.  

For more North Carolina heritage- and durable, workwear-inspired items, visit LuminaClothing.com.