Flannel Dressing Gown

“Few fabrics carry as much value and emotion as flannel, with its typically British softness. The French word “flanelle” is ancient, coming from the English flannel, borrowed from the Welsh “gwlanen”. Technically, it is a fabric whose plain weave is blurred by abrasion of its surface, revealing a light fluffy cover. In the 19th century, flannel was opposed to the much denser worsted twill and other gabardines. Therefore, flannel was considered lighter and more breathable, and therefore a summer fabric, which is something to smile about nowadays.

As one should never confuse the material and the way of weaving, let us specify that the flannel is a way of weaving. And which can be made of various materials, even if it is generally made of wool, or wool & cashmere. We can also find cotton flannel, in fact quite similar to moleskin. Our elders generally hate flannel. They have the memory of a material that scratched their thighs terribly as little boys that their mothers wanted to see well wrapped up.

The wool manufacturers have reacted vigorously to not let themselves be affected by artificial materials. No more scratchy wool, hello softness, and flexibility. The flannel pants obviously continue to be the alpha and omega of any self-respecting closet! “

The V.B.C. brand is probably one of the best-known in the tailoring world. It is synonymous with quality and durability. A traditional house that seeks to do well, affordable luxury.

A small document dated 1663 marks the beginning of the wool adventure of the Barberis Canonico family. It describes the sale of cloth to the Duke of Savoy and the skills of a dyer. This ancient date makes the draper one of the oldest companies in the world still in operation. As such, V.B.C. is part of the very select Henokiens Club. Taking advantage of the industrial revolution, the family developed the wool business. When the first mechanical looms arrived in 1868, all weaving, dyeing, brushing, and finishing activities were concentrated in the Pratrivero factory.

The arrival of electricity made it possible to speed up production rates and improve regularity. Thanks to the high quality of the fabrics it produces, the company begins to successfully export all over the world, not only to Europe, but also to America, the British Raj, and even China. It was in 1936 that the Vitale Barberis Canonico brand appeared. If the 1970s questioned the use of natural materials, the family made the choice to stay on these fundamentals, a bet that has succeeded for the company. Vitale Barberis Canonico remains true to its origins.

Dry cleaning is highly recommended for wool products. However, it should not be done often: only once a year, or even less! A simple steam ironing at home or at the dry cleaners is enough in most cases to remove odors, and bacteria and to give the jacket a good look.