Vitale Barberis Canonico “Silently set in the misty Biella hills”: this is the romantic image of Pratrivero, a hamlet of Trivero, part of the Mountain Communities of the Valle Mosso in the foothills of the Alps near Biella
May 2009 will be a month in history that has forever changed me. While traveling as a Rotary GSE team member to the Lombardia region in Italy I had the privilege of visiting the Barberis mill. After 11 years in the menswear industry and a degree from Louisiana State University in Textiles, Apparel Design, and Merchandising, the only missing ingredient was to witness the beauty and art of fabric weaving. I’ve had the pleasure of selecting their fabrics and creating suits and the sort for my clients and my own personal wardrobe. Once inside the factory my eyes were truly opened to the love that goes into their creation.
I was graciously greeted by Alberto Barberis Canonico and his son-in-law. The company has been family run since the mid 16th century. Of course some incredibly modern changes have been made to the equipment. However, the soul of the company remains true to its deep rooted values. Behind the success of the company are competitiveness, quality, reliability and service.
Follow me through the mill…
