The flat knitting machine manufacturer Shima Seiki has a ‘first of its kind’ capsule collection that offers a new interpretation of tailoring by using an innovative form of Knitwear in collaboration with The Woolmark Company.
Merino wool collection comprises three outfits that provide a modern and urban interpretation of the classic formal look using knitted fabrics rather than traditionally used woven fabrics. The garments are a showcase of the latest knitting technology from Shima Seiki as well as Woolmark-certified Merino wool yarns. The collection has been fabricated using yarns from Filati Loro Piana, Tollegno 1900, and Zegna Baruffa Lane Borgosesia.
The fabrics have a ‘double face’ structure comprising two layers of knits. The first made using Merino wool yarn which provides a beautiful texture and luxurious touch. The second made using a TPU Evolution yarn from Italian company CoatYarn SRL, which provides a ‘peach-like touch. The result is a garment that is more rigid yet elastic and soft to touch.
Vittorio Branchizio, Creative Director of Shima Seiki Italia, said, “All three of the outfits originated from the same creative matrix, conceiving a man and a woman always in motion, metropolitan, and with this thought in mind we have produced structures with the latest generation machines from Shima Seiki, using Merino wool yarns from three different spinners from the Biella region.”
Birgit Gahlen, Research & Development Manager for Europe, The Woolmark Company, said, “Collaborations such as this not only stimulate the supply chain to undertake innovative R&D, but it also provides new opportunities for the whole textile supply chain, from manufacturers to brands, to create new commercial opportunities for wool.”
