ZILLI: A LEATHER JACKET EMPIRE IS BORN

The Zilli story begins in 1965 with the foundation of the iconic brand which, today, is synonymous with luxurious apparel and stylish, tailored pieces, especially leather apparel. It was then that a collaboration would begin which would shape the direction of the Maison Zilli line – a collaboration between a French entrepreneur and an established Italian tailor with a reputation for sleek and elegant designs for discerning customers.

Theophile Zilli was an Italian emigré who had settled in Lyon where he opened a small tailoring business. His particular specialism was in cutting jackets and outerwear for the region’s most stylish men who had an expectation of premium quality.

Zilli sourced the very best materials from across France, England and his native Italy. He carefully selected the finest fabrics and textiles and would set to work producing his garments with great enthusiasm, eager to demonstrate his excellent craftsmanship and extensive knowledge to his distinguished clientele.

Zilli had a particular fondness for using animal skins for his coats and jackets, choices that were, of course, very popular at that time. He garnered a reputation as an exceedingly refined tailor of fur coats and leather jackets.

So it would be that one day he would come to serve a Lyonnais businessman, Alan Schimmel, who was astounded at the high quality finish of the pieces he had commissioned. The quality of materials and the attention to detail greatly impressed Schimmel who soon put together a tantalising business proposition which promised great potential for Zilli and his brand.

With Schimmel onboard as an investor, the Zilli house would expand significantly, accessing markets much further afield. Soon, Zilli would be delivering pieces to fashionable customers in Milan, in Amsterdam, in Paris and in London, establishing themselves as a go-to outfitter for high society.

Zilli’s story since that fateful encounter has been one of great success. The brand has become internationally known with high demand for their exquisite leather jackets and tailored suiting and casualwear which somehow manage to be both in the French style and the Italian style simultaneously. Quite a feat.

Zilli operates a number of stores across the world, with their flagship location in Paris, located just off the Champs-Élysées in the fashionable 8^th Arrondissement.

Zilli offers a full-range menswear line of off-the rack, ready-to-wear fashions. However the house’s specialty remains leather apparel and leather goods. This includes all manner of gentlemen’s accessories, such as belts, wallets and bags. The firm also produces a range of footwear, including leather shoes and sneakers. Additionally, Zilli aficionados can pick up fragrances or sunglasses from their favourite brand, in-store or online. Limited customisation options are available in respect of the brand’s leather goods range.

Zilli is an iconic Franco-Italian brand that has firmly positioned itself as one of France’s preferred designers for the well-dressed man.

Are you a fan of the brand? What’s your experience of Zilli been like? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

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