The world’s finest fabric mills are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, innovative techniques, and commitment to quality. Here’s a spotlight on some of the most celebrated names in textile manufacturing from Italy and beyond.
These mills not only craft some of the finest fabrics in the world, but also represent centuries of heritage and innovation within the Menswear industry. Their ongoing influence continues to redefine the menswear tailoring world, ensuring that brands like ours, Gangotra 1916, deliver bespoke creations using only the most exceptional materials produced.
Ferla – Made in Italy
For over a century, Ferla have been manufacturing textiles for menswear and womenswear with a distinct soul and style that make a statement. They put their heart into everything they do, which is why they have distinguished themselves over time. They are known not only for their quality and innovation, but also because they have added the right amount of creativity, research and freshness to the renowned classic style of Biella fabrics, which has gradually convinced the most prestigious luxury fashion brands in Italy and abroad.
Through the accurate warping, twisting, weaving and finishing processes performed in their plant in Polto, in the municipality of Trivero, they create unique and distinctive fabrics that are renewed each season yet always remain true to their DNA.
Ferla use the finest natural fibres to produce fabrics for jackets, dresses, suits, and coats that are in step with the times and trends while fully respecting their personality. Their exclusive, high quality fabrics are always stylish and ideal for refined tailoring.
Ferla fabrics are the perfect synthesis of their heritage and superb textile manufacturing tradition, with a constant desire to look forward and to innovate, and their ability to approach different worlds and markets, offering the expertise and elegance that have made them famous.
Loro Piana – Made in Italy
Loro Piana, an iconic name in luxury textiles, has a legacy that spans over six generations. The company’s roots trace back to the early 19th century in Trivero, a region in northern Italy known for its rich textile heritage. Initially, the Loro Piana family were merchants of wool, but in 1924, Pietro Loro Piana established the company Ing. Loro Piana & C. in Quarona, Piedmont. This marked the beginning of their journey as producers of some of the world’s finest fabrics.
Under the leadership of Franco Loro Piana in the mid 20th century, the company expanded its reach, sourcing the finest raw materials globally. Franco’s vision was to transform these materials into fabrics of unparalleled quality, which quickly gained recognition among high end fashion houses and bespoke tailors. By the 1970s, Franco’s sons, Pier Luigi and Sergio, took the helm, introducing innovations like the Tasmanian wool, a lightweight, ultra fine fabric that became a hallmark of Loro Piana.
Loro Piana is celebrated for its meticulous craftsmanship and commitment to sourcing the rarest and most luxurious fibres. Their offerings include cashmere from Mongolian goats, vicuña from the Andes and extra fine merino wool from Australia and New Zealand. These fabrics are renowned for their softness, durability, and elegance, making them a preferred choice for luxury menswear.
Today, Loro Piana continues to set the standard for luxury textiles, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation. Their fabrics are synonymous with timeless sophistication, ensuring that every tailored garment exudes both style and substance.
Drago – Made in Italy
The journey of Drago began in 1973 when the Drago family founded a historic spinning company, establishing a benchmark for the leading wool mills in Biella. Over time, the company secured a significant market share, emerging as a leader in its field. By 1980, it had developed an efficient international sales network spanning the globe. During this period, the founders’ children, Paolo and Daniela, joined the company. Their specialised expertise and innovative ideas played a pivotal role in driving the Group’s expansion.
In 1993, the Drago family acquired Lanificio Fintes, marking a key milestone that expanded their operations and introduced a new fabrics division. This strategic decision solidified the Drago Lanificio brand over the years, culminating in the incorporation of Lanificio Fintes into the Drago Group in 2001.
Today, DRAGO stands as a renowned Italian producer of high quality fabrics for men, seamlessly blending the rich heritage of Italian tradition with modern innovation.
As a fully integrated woolen mill, DRAGO meticulously selects the finest raw materials and internally produces over 1.7 million meters of premium fabric, which is exported worldwide. With a strong presence in the Italian market, DRAGO’s fabrics are highly sought after by leading international brands, particularly in Japan, Korea, and the United States.
Vitale Barberis Canonico – Made in Italy
Vitale Barberis Canonico, one of the oldest and most prestigious wool mills in the world, has a history that dates back to 1663. Located in Pratrivero, Italy, this family owned company has been passed down through 13 generations, maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation. The mill’s origins can be traced to the production of fine wool fabrics, which were initially crafted for local markets and later expanded to serve international clientele. Over the centuries, Vitale Barberis Canonico has adapted to technological advancements while preserving its artisanal heritage, making it a cornerstone of Italian textile excellence.
The fabrics produced by Vitale Barberis Canonico are renowned for their exceptional quality and versatility, making them a favorite in menswear. The mill specializes in a wide range of fabrics, including classic worsted wool, flannel, and innovative blends. Their collections often feature Super 110s to Super 180s wool, offering a balance of durability, softness, and elegance. These fabrics are celebrated for their impeccable drape, refined textures, and timeless appeal, making them ideal for crafting bespoke suits, jackets, and trousers.
Reda – Made in Italy
Reda, an iconic name in the world of fine textiles, has a rich history that dates back to 1865. Founded by Carlo Reda in Valle Mosso, within Italy’s renowned Biella region, the mill began as a modest woolen operation. Over time, it evolved into a global leader in Merino wool fabrics, celebrated for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability.
In 1919, the Botto Poala family, descendants of a distinguished textile lineage, acquired the mill. Under their stewardship, Reda expanded its reach and refined its craft, blending traditional techniques with modern advancements. The company has remained family owned, with the fourth generation continuing to uphold its legacy.
Reda’s dedication to excellence is evident in its vertical integration. The company oversees every stage of production, from sourcing wool from its own farms in New Zealand to crafting the final fabric in Italy. This meticulous approach ensures unparalleled quality and traceability.
For menswear, Reda offers a diverse range of fabrics that cater to both classic and contemporary styles. Their collections include Super 110s, 130s, and 150s wool, known for their luxurious feel, durability, and impeccable drape. These fabrics are ideal for everything from business suits to formal attire.
Libeco – Made in Belgium
Situated in Meulebeke, a region celebrated for its flax cultivation, Libeco initially operated as a trading house before evolving into a weaving mill. Over the decades, the company has weathered industrial revolutions, wars, and economic challenges, emerging as a leader in linen production. Today, Libeco is one of the largest linen weaving mills in Europe and holds prestigious certifications like the Belgian Linen and Masters of Linen labels, which guarantee quality, authenticity, and sustainable production.
Libeco’s linen fabrics are crafted from flax grown in the fertile regions of Belgium, the Netherlands, and northern France. The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its carbon-neutral operations and innovative practices, such as utilizing renewable energy and ensuring no waste in flax processing. These high quality linen fabrics are prized for their natural elegance, durability, and versatility, making them ideal for menswear tailoring. Linen’s unique properties, cool in summer, warm in winter and resistant to wear make it a sophisticated choice for tailored garments.
Libeco’s dedication to craftsmanship and innovation has earned it a reputation among designers and fashion houses worldwide. Their menswear fabrics, woven with premier European fibres, embody timeless style and sustainable luxury.
Gilmore Hedges – Made in Italy
Gilmore Hedges, known as “The Fabric Engineers,” is a distinguished name in the world of menswear tailoring, celebrated for their commitment to crafting durable and sustainable fabrics. Based in Florence, Italy, a city renowned for its rich textile heritage, Gilmore Hedges embodies the spirit of innovation and craftsmanship that has defined the region for centuries.
While specific historical details about the origins of Gilmore Hedges remain elusive, their reputation is built on a philosophy of creating high performance fabrics that stand the test of time. They focus on wool fabrics, employing techniques such as twisting two yarns together and weaving them into robust constructions. This approach ensures durability, addressing the fragility often seen in modern fabrics due to lighter constructions and refined yarns.
Gilmore Hedges also emphasizes sustainability, utilising state of the art finishing methods combined with eco friendly dyeing processes. Their dedication to reimagining iconic patterns results in timeless designs that transcend fleeting fashion trends. These qualities make their fabrics a preferred choice for bespoke tailoring, offering elegance, resilience, and a touch of Florentine sophistication.
Guabello – Made in Italy
Guabello, a prestigious fabric mill, has been a cornerstone of Italian textile craftsmanship since its establishment in 1815. Located in Mongrando, within the renowned Biella textile district, Guabello has upheld a legacy of excellence for over two centuries. This region is celebrated globally for its expertise in wool production, and Guabello has played a pivotal role in maintaining this reputation.
The mill is deeply rooted in tradition, yet it seamlessly integrates innovation into its processes. Guabello is known for its meticulous selection of raw materials, particularly superfine Merino wool, which is transformed into luxurious fabrics. Their collections often feature Super 120’s, Super 130’s, and Super 150’s wool, offering a range of weights, patterns, and finishes to suit diverse tailoring needs.
Guabello’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its production methods, which prioritize environmental responsibility without compromising quality. Their fabrics are celebrated for their refined style, relaxed elegance and exceptional performance.
For menswear tailoring, Guabello fabrics are a symbol of luxury and durability. They provide a perfect balance of elegance and functionality, making them a preferred choice for bespoke suits and high end ready to wear collections. With a heritage steeped in craftsmanship and a vision for the future, Guabello continues to inspire the world of fashion.
Lanificio F.lli Cerruti – Made in Italy
Lanificio Fratelli Cerruti, established in 1881 in Biella, Italy, is a legendary fabric mill that has been synonymous with luxury and innovation for over a century. Founded by Antonio Cerruti alongside his brothers and a cousin, the mill quickly gained recognition for its high-quality textiles. Biella, renowned for its pristine water and ideal conditions for wool processing, became the perfect home for Cerruti’s operations.
The Cerruti family’s dedication to craftsmanship and innovation has been a hallmark of the mill’s history. In the mid-20th century, Nino Cerruti, a visionary in the fashion world, took over the family business. Under his leadership, the mill not only produced exceptional fabrics but also ventured into menswear, laying the foundation for the Cerruti 1881 fashion house. While the fashion house and the mill are now separate entities, Lanificio Cerruti continues to produce fabrics that are highly sought after by luxury brands and bespoke tailors worldwide.
Cerruti fabrics are celebrated for their elegance, durability, and versatility. They specialize in fine wool, including Super 130’s and Super 150’s, offering a range of textures and patterns that cater to both classic and contemporary tailoring. The mill’s commitment to sustainability and innovation ensures that their fabrics meet the highest standards of quality while respecting the environment.
For menswear tailoring, Cerruti fabrics are a symbol of sophistication and refinement, making them a preferred choice for those who value timeless style and impeccable craftsmanship.
Lanificio Angelico – Made in Italy
Lanificio Angelico, founded in 1959 by Giuseppe Angelico, is a distinguished fabric mill located in Ronco Biellese, within the renowned Biella textile district of Italy. This region is celebrated for its rich textile heritage, and Angelico has played a pivotal role in upholding its reputation. From its humble beginnings as an artisan weaving mill, the company quickly evolved into a leading industrial entity, representing the excellence of Italian craftsmanship on a global scale.
The mill’s philosophy is rooted in a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Giuseppe Angelico’s vision of combining skilled craftsmanship with cutting edge technology has been carried forward by subsequent generations, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of the textile industry. Lanificio Angelico is renowned for its meticulous selection of raw materials, including fine wool, cashmere, and linen, which are transformed into luxurious fabrics through a fully integrated production cycle.
For menswear tailoring, Angelico fabrics are synonymous with elegance, durability, and versatility. Their collections feature a wide range of options, from classic wool suiting fabrics to innovative blends that cater to contemporary fashion trends. The mill’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its production processes, which prioritize environmental responsibility without compromising quality.
Tollegno 1900 – Made in Italy
Tollegno 1900, a historic fabric mill located in Biella, Italy, has been a cornerstone of the textile industry since its establishment in 1900. The mill is deeply rooted in the Biella region, which is renowned for its wool textile tradition and pristine water sources, ideal for wool processing. Tollegno 1900 has consistently upheld its legacy of excellence, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.
The mill specialises in producing high quality fabrics using superfine Merino wool and other premium fibres. Their collections include innovative lines like 3DWOOL, which combines performance, elasticity and sustainability. Tollegno 1900 is committed to eco friendly practices, utilising clean energy and water purification systems to minimize environmental impact. Their dedication to sustainability is further demonstrated through certifications like the Responsible Wool Standards (RWS), ensuring traceability and animal welfare.
For menswear tailoring, Tollegno 1900 fabrics are celebrated for their elegance, durability and versatility. They offer a range of options, from classic wool suiting fabrics to innovative blends that cater to contemporary fashion trends. With a heritage steeped in craftsmanship and a vision for the future, Tollegno 1900 continues to inspire the world of menswear.
Lanificio Carlo Barbera – Made in Italy
Lanificio Carlo Barbera, established in 1949 by Carlo Barbera, is a distinguished fabric mill located in Biella, Italy, a region celebrated for its rich textile heritage and pristine water sources, ideal for wool processing. Carlo Barbera, a visionary with a passion for luxury and innovation, founded the mill with the ambition of producing fabrics of unparalleled quality. His dedication to excellence quickly earned the mill a reputation as one of Biella’s premier textile producers.
The mill’s philosophy has always been rooted in meticulous craftsmanship and the use of the finest raw materials. Carlo Barbera pioneered the practice of sourcing superfine Merino wool directly from Australia, ensuring the highest quality fibres. He also introduced innovative techniques, such as storing yarns in a specially designed cellar to maintain optimal temperature and humidity, preserving their integrity throughout the production process.
Lanificio Carlo Barbera is renowned for its luxurious fabrics, including Super 150’s and Super 180’s wool, which are prized for their softness, durability and elegance. These fabrics are a favourite among bespoke tailors and high end fashion houses, offering a perfect balance of tradition and modernity. The mill’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its eco friendly practices, which include responsible sourcing and the integration of sustainable fibres into their collections.
Today, Lanificio Carlo Barbera continues to set the standard for excellence in menswear tailoring fabrics, blending heritage with innovation to meet the evolving needs of the fashion industry. Their fabrics are a testament to Italian craftsmanship, offering timeless sophistication for those who value quality and style. Today, Lanificio Carlo Barbera continues to set the standard for excellence in menswear tailoring fabrics, blending heritage with innovation to meet the evolving needs of the fashion industry. Their fabrics are a testament to Italian craftsmanship, offering timeless sophistication for those who value quality and style.
Leomaster – Made in Italy
Leomaster, established in 1991, is a distinguished fabric mill rooted in the rich textile traditions of Capritex, a company founded in 1958. Located along the banks of the Bisenzio River in Italy, Leomaster specialises in crafting fine fabrics for menswear, blending heritage with modern innovation.
The mill is renowned for its yarn dyed fabrics, which feature traditional textures infused with contemporary vibrancy. Leomaster prioritises natural fibres, including virgin wool, cashmere, alpaca, silk, and linen, ensuring exceptional quality and elegance. Their collections redefine classic menswear, offering versatile fabrics that seamlessly bridge formal, casual, and sporty styles.
Leomaster’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation makes it a trusted name in the world of menswear textiles. Their fabrics embody a perfect balance of tradition and modernity, catering to the cosmopolitan gentleman.
Marlane – Made in Italy
Marlane, a distinguished fabric mill based in Italy’s Biella district, is celebrated for its exceptional craftsmanship and innovation in menswear textiles. This region is renowned for its high concentration of premium fabric producers, and Marlane stands out as a beacon of quality and style.
The mill combines traditional expertise with cutting edge technology to create fabrics that balance elegance and performance. Marlane’s offerings include timeless formal fabrics, ideal for classic menswear, as well as contemporary designs that cater to modern tastes. Their innovative “Endurance” line blends Merino wool with Cordura for enhanced durability, water resistance, and comfort, making it suitable for both formal and versatile applications.
Sustainability is a core value for Marlane, reflected in their eco conscious production processes and use of natural materials. Their commitment to excellence ensures that Marlane fabrics remain a preferred choice for discerning menswear designers and enthusiasts worldwide.
Lanificio di Pray – Made in Italy
Lanificio di Pray, established in 1948, is a renowned fabric mill located in the Biella region of Italy, an area celebrated for its rich textile heritage. The mill specialises in producing high quality fabrics for menswear, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.
Lanificio di Pray is particularly known for its carded and combed fabrics, crafted from luxurious natural fibres such as pure cashmere, wool, alpaca, silk, and linen. Their expertise lies in creating fabrics for jackets, suits, trousers, and coats, offering a perfect blend of elegance and durability. The mill’s silk and wool blend fabrics are especially prized for their softness, warmth, and versatility, making them a favourite among fashion designers and enthusiasts.
Rooted in the Biella district’s legacy of wool processing, Lanificio di Pray ensures exceptional quality by meticulously selecting raw materials and maintaining attention to detail throughout the production process. Their fabrics embody the essence of Italian craftsmanship, catering to the needs of discerning gentlemen worldwide.
Paulo Oliveira – Made in Portugal
Paulo de Oliveira, founded in 1936 in Covilhã, Portugal, is a leading name in the textile industry, often referred to as the “Portuguese Manchester” due to its rich wool heritage. The mill is renowned for its vertical integration, overseeing every stage of production, from spinning and weaving to dyeing and finishing, ensuring exceptional quality and innovation.
Specialising in wool fabrics, Paulo de Oliveira offers a range of sophisticated and functional textiles for menswear. Their collections include classic and stretch wool fabrics, designed for comfort and versatility. The mill is also a pioneer in sustainable practices, utilising solar energy, water recycling and eco friendly production methods.
Paulo de Oliveira’s dedication to craftsmanship and sustainability has made it a trusted name in menswear textiles, blending tradition with modernity to cater to discerning clients worldwide.