SPICA — CROPPED FUNNEL NECK SWEATER

SPICA is definitely cropped: the front length is 53 cm in S, which falls just above the navel on a 1.70-1.75 m tall body. It's calibrated to work with high-waisted leggings (like ZANIA) or high-waisted joggers (DENEB) — the sweatshirt reveals the high waistband, which visually structures the silhouette. On a smaller or taller body, the effect varies by a few centimeters.

No. The funnel neck is sized to remain comfortable even with prolonged wear: it rises to the middle of the neck, about 6-7 cm above the collarbone, without touching the chin or constricting the throat. The construction is stitched, without a visible drawstring, which guarantees the same fit day after day. If you find it too low, you can fold it up slightly — it stays in place without sagging.

SPICA is primarily designed for loungewear, post-workout, and athleisure lifestyle — not for intense effort. Cotton retains moisture longer than technical knit, which is less comfortable with sustained sweating. For gentle yoga, warm-ups, or a cool session at the beginning of class, it works. For HIIT, running, or power yoga, stick to a sports bra + a technical long-sleeve.

The shoulders should fall just at the edge, without extending towards the upper arm. The sleeve covers the wrist without constricting it. The cropped length should reveal 2-5 cm of skin (or high waistband) at the navel. If the cut falls too low on the stomach, the item appears short rather than cropped — go down a size. If it rides up to the ribs, the size is too small.

The 75% cotton 25% polyester 250GSM blend is precisely chosen to limit pilling and deformation. Polyester stabilizes the fiber, while cotton provides softness. Washed at 30°C inside out, without fabric softener, and air-dried, SPICA is highly resistant to pilling. The most exposed areas (inside of the arm due to bag friction, hem) may become denser after 30-40 cycles — normal wear, not a defect.

Yes. The funnel neck and cropped cut elevate SPICA beyond a classic sports sweatshirt, making it a statement editorial piece. Worn with wide dress pants, a denim midi skirt, or cropped jeans, it works for a creative office environment, an exhibition, or a casual dinner. The black/ivory palette and absence of conspicuous logos enhance its versatility.

At 250GSM, SPICA is more of a mid-season sweatshirt than a full winter one. Worn alone, it works indoors or up to 12-14°C outdoors. Below that, add a layer: a thin thermal tank top underneath, a NOVA fleece jacket, a trench coat, or a wool coat over it. The funnel neck provides natural protection against drafts around the neck, which changes the feel compared to a crew neck.

Wash at 30°C maximum inside out, on a short cycle. Use gentle detergent without fabric softener — it clogs fibers and causes the dense feel to be lost. Lay flat or hang on a thick hanger to dry, never tumble dry or on a radiator, to avoid shrinkage. Avoid direct ironing: if heavily creased, steam from a distance or iron inside out on low heat. With this protocol, SPICA will last several seasons without deformation.

Yes. The blended cotton is OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified — a protocol that excludes over 350 concerning chemical substances (heavy metals, formaldehyde, phthalates, azo dyes). This is relevant for a loungewear item worn several hours a day, sometimes directly on the skin, and washed regularly.

The Lululemon Scuba is iconic for its buttery feel and versatility, but at a significantly higher price and a more oversized fit. The Alo Soho focuses on heavy cotton and a loose fit. SPICA strikes a balance: 250GSM weight close to the Scuba, a funnel neck that changes the silhouette, a distinctly cropped cut calibrated for a duo-set with DENEB, a curated editorial palette, and OEKO-TEX certification.