Frequently Asked Questions
What is Egyptian cotton?
The term Egyptian cotton is usually applied to the extra long staple cotton produced in Egypt and used by luxury and upmarket brands worldwide. In fact, the cotton species which produces extra long staple "Egyptian" cotton is the native American species Gossypium barbadense which was introduced by Mohammad Ali Pasha in the 19th century. During the American Civil War, with heavy European investments, Egyptian-grown cotton became a major alternate source for British textile mills. Egyptian cotton is more durable and softer than American Pima cotton, which is why it is more expensive. Pima cotton is American cotton that is grown in the south western states of the U.S.What is the difference between "1-ply" and "2-ply"?
Two-ply fabrics feel silkier and make a comfortable shirt because two individual threads are twisted together to make one yarn and tightly woven creating a very smooth, strong fabric.
What does Double Ply mean?
Two individual threads are twisted together to make one yarn and tightly woven creating a smooth strong fabric.This luxurious and durable quality requires long fibers, such as Egyptian cotton. In the textile arts, plying is a process used to create a strong, balanced yarn. It is done by taking two or more strands of yarn that each have a twist to them and putting them together. The strands are twisted together, in the opposite direction than that in which they were spun. A two-ply is thus a yarn plied from two strands.
What sizes do you carry?
The Gemelli shirts are available from 14.5" up to 19" necksize. We also carry 15 3/4" and 17 3/4".Do you carry different sleeve lengths?
No, our sleeve length varies with the collar size, which generally accommodates 80% of all customers. In case you need the sleeves shortened, arrangements for this service is available upon request.What types of collar do you carry?
Gemelli sells the classic Italian business look: the half split collar.How do I care for my shirts?
You can hand wash or machine wash your Gemelli shirts in warm water (40 degrees Celsius). The shirts can be spin-dried, but not tumble dried. Hang them to dry. Using a tumble-dryer creates wear-and-tear and can shrink your shirts. Do not bleach or starch your Gemelli shirts. Gemelli shirts can also be dry-cleaned.What about shrinkage?
All the fabric for Gemelli shirts is pre-shrunk. Follow the above instructions for care described above, and they will not shrink. GuaranteedItalian made quality products, is that expensive?
No! Gemelli shirts start at $135. Our most expensive shirts are only $160! Gemelli shirts are priced based on the type of fabric (and its cost) they are made from.Our prices are half the market price because we buy the fabric directly in Italy and have Gemelli shirts made there for us. They are then shipped directly so you don’t pay for any intermediate costs. Because there are no intermediate costs!