Back in the USA after a century and a half, CHAPAL makes a stopover in
New York in the footsteps of previous generations of the family.
To mark this event, a new version of the iconic USAAF flight jacket has been created in tribute to Maison’s American roots.
Founded in France in 1832, the company expanded to New York in 1882.
Emile CHAPAL, then head of the eponymous company, embarked on one of his greatest journeys, driven by the dream of developing the family business abroad and importing French craftsmanship to America.
He crossed the Atlantic and set up CHAPAL in Brooklyn, thus forever linking Paris to New York in the minds of his descendants.
Today, Jean-François Bardinon, the 8th generation of this illustrious family, has reconnected with the USA with the creation of this new USAAF,
ultra-luxurious, which he named “Hudson Blue”.
This jacket is unique in its American origins, its finishes and its deep, intense blue color, specially designed for this comeback.
Only 32 pieces will be handcrafted by the Maison’s artisans and only available to order.
Jean-François, President and Artistic Director: “America has shaped our history and continues to inspire our collections today. I’ve made this rich past one of our priorities, and I’m proud to once again build the link between Paris and New York, 143 years later.”
America is a key market for CHAPAL: New Yorkers with a passion for European brands seek out that rare and different French savoir-faire. They appreciate the history of the Maison and the conquering spirit of its leaders.
A bit of history:
At the end of the 19th century, this generation of adventurers crossed the Atlantic ocean to bring French savoir-faire to Brooklyn.
One of the creator’s great-grandsons, Emile Chapal, started to develop the activity on the American ground, creating CHAPAL unique DNA between Paris and New York.
Importing rabbit skins from France, he improved the techniques to apply to sea otter fur, from the Hudson bay. This perfect imitation was an opening door to success. Emile settled with his wife and a bunch of workers in Brooklyn: he developed up to four production plants covering tanning, felt manufacturing (with the hair from rabbit skins) as well as the fabrication of hats, very much in vogue in the 19th and 20th century.
At the same time, CHAPAL invented a plastification process for sheepskins used to make jackets for US Air Force aviators during the WWII.
Many family members took part in this incredible American adventure, and continue to do so today.
More details:
The Hudson Blue is an ultra-luxurious USAAF in sheepskin leather in an original shade of deep blue.
The lining is made of heavy silk (5.3 oz.), handmade frame printing by the traditional British company Adamley.
The design of this unique lining refers to the cities of Paris and New York, as if suspended on the globe where flags of the two nations are floating.
An ode to the Maison’s move from Paris to the new continent.
Deep blue soft sheepskin leather
Brass eyelets, snaps and Riri Swiss zipper – silver or gold finish
Removable collar in brown or deep blue sheepskin fur
Ribbed edges in brown or blue cashwool
The USAAF Hudson Blue will be delivered with a large scarf (90x90cm) in 5.3 oz Adamley silk, with original designs echoing the Maison’s influences.
It is a limited edition of 32 exclusive pieces and available by order only.
Click here for further information
more information: mailchi.mp
Photo Credit By mailchi.mp
