St. Gallen might look like a peaceful Swiss town, but it plays a major role in the global fashion scene. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and historic architecture, this city has a long-standing tradition of textile production. In fact, St. Gallen embroidery is considered one of the most luxurious fabrics in the world, found in collections by top designers and worn by fashion icons. Let’s explore what makes St. Gallen a true gem in the fashion industry.
A Long History of Craftsmanship
St. Gallen has been a hub for textile production since the 13th century. The city became famous for “chemical lace,” a unique embroidery style that creates a lace effect by dissolving a base fabric. This technique made St. Gallen a leader in the textile world by the 20th century. Although global competition has since reduced production, St. Gallen’s embroidery continues to appear on elite runways and in high-profile wardrobes, from Michelle Obama to Queen Elizabeth.
Instagram | imigo.lt | St. Gallen's Textile Museum preserves embroidery history.
Even as the industry has evolved, the skill and precision of St. Gallen’s embroidery remain unmatched. The city’s rich textile heritage is visible everywhere—from the historic buildings of former linen merchants to the carefully preserved collections in the local Textile Museum.
Embroidery Is Everywhere in St. Gallen’s Culture
In St. Gallen, embroidery is more than just a craft; it’s woven into the very culture of the city. Walking through the town, visitors can see signs of this legacy in the architecture. Buildings with bay windows once indicated the wealth of linen merchants, and the famous “five gold heads” building symbolizes the international reach of St. Gallen’s textile trade in the 1800s.
The Textile Museum of St. Gallen holds over 5,000 examples of historical lace and embroidery, showcasing the city’s craftsmanship. Each piece tells a story, reflecting centuries of artistry and hard work. The museum also highlights the economic importance of embroidery for St. Gallen, especially during times of hardship like the two World Wars, when textile production was a critical part of the local economy.
Designers From Around the World Visit St. Gallen
St. Gallen is a must-visit destination for fashion designers seeking inspiration. High-end brands like Valentino, Dior, and Balenciaga come to this Swiss town to source embroidery for their collections. Forster Rohner, one of St. Gallen’s leading textile producers, houses an extensive archive of embroidery samples that attract top designers year after year.
For example, Forster Rohner has collaborated with Valentino on intricate, floral-inspired designs. Designers can browse samples dating back to the late 1800s, each showcasing different textures, colors, and styles. This direct access to St. Gallen’s archives allows designers to bring new ideas to life using centuries-old techniques.
A Deep Commitment to Quality
One aspect that sets St. Gallen apart is its dedication to quality and detail. At textile producers like Forster Rohner, each piece of fabric is carefully crafted by skilled artisans. Every design starts with a sketch, which is then digitized and embroidered using specialized machines. This process can take days or even weeks, depending on the complexity of the pattern.
Fashion brands, including Victoria’s Secret, rely on St. Gallen’s embroidery for their show-stopping pieces. For the 2024 revival of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, Forster Rohner created custom embroidery for the collection, with every feather and sequin meticulously hand-sewn. This attention to detail ensures that each piece reflects the high standards of St. Gallen’s textile tradition.
Exclusive Embroideries Available for Purchase
Instagram | textilmuseum | St. Gallen embroidery offers exclusive designer fabrics.
Here’s a unique detail: St. Gallen embroidery, after a period of exclusivity with fashion houses, is available to the public. The Forster Rohner outlet in St. Gallen sells unused designer embroideries after an exclusivity period of two to six years. Rolls of fabric, originally created for top fashion brands, can be purchased by anyone looking to add a touch of luxury to their wardrobe or home decor.
For example, one might find leftover embroidery from a past Burberry collection or intricate lace initially made for Valentino. This gives fashion enthusiasts a rare opportunity to own a piece of designer-quality fabric and experience St. Gallen’s craftsmanship firsthand.
St. Gallen’s Approach to Slow Fashion
In today’s world of fast fashion, St. Gallen stands out for its commitment to slow, meticulous craftsmanship. Unlike the mass-produced pieces seen in many fashion capitals, St. Gallen’s embroidery requires patience and skill. The city’s dedication to slow fashion offers a refreshing alternative to the fast-paced trends of Paris and New York.
The serene environment of St. Gallen reflects this slower pace. With its historical buildings, quiet streets, and close connection to nature, the city encourages a thoughtful, intentional approach to fashion. This focus on quality over quantity aligns with the principles of slow fashion, making St. Gallen a perfect destination for those who value timeless beauty and craftsmanship.