Behind Our Fabrics
The Subalpino Mill
EST. 1966
Region Biella, Italy
Employees 60
Est. 1966
Owned by Andrea Rosa & Alberto Tamburrano
Mill type Lanificio
Fabrics Cotton Seersucker, Wool
From small family weavers to producers of the world’s most coveted cotton seersucker fabrics in just under 60 years.
Founded in 1966 by the Luciano family, Subalpino has expanded from a small family outlet to an internationally respected name in fine Italian fabrics. Though celebrated for their innovative colors, patterns, and wool and wool-linen blends, it’s their cotton seersucker fabrics that have set them apart from the rest.
Instant Icon — Seersucker's thin stripe & coarse texture makes it one of the most easily recognizable of all fabrics, and a Suitsupply favorite during the warm seasons.
Subalpino Seersucker
Among their most prized offerings is the Subalpino seersucker, some variations of which are made in up to 80 colors. Traditionally crafted in pale and dark blue shades, seersucker is a thin cotton fabric known for its light weight and exceptional freshness.
Raw cotton fabric is meticulously crafted on flat looms before an intricate “slack-tension” weave gives it its signature textured finish. This technique allows the threads to bunch together, giving the fabric its signature alternating smooth and textured stripes. The result is a uniquely puckered fabric that allows air to be trapped, offering unmatched breathability that gives even linen a run for its money.
A Human Touch — An experienced weaver makes a final hand inspection to ensure Subalpino fabrics are 100% flawless.
A History of Style
Durable and lightweight, seersucker was once popular among rail workers, earning it the name of a railroad stripe. But beyond just a workhorse fabric, seersucker has long been celebrated for its versatility, being used in everything from Victorian-era bedding to military uniforms, upholstery and modern attire. Synonymous with humid southern climates and northeastern collegiate culture alike, seersucker has transcended time, class and changing style trends to become one of the most iconic fabrics of all time.