STORY OF THE STYLE – RIB CREW
In the latest instalment of our ‘Story of the Style’ series, discover how we create our unique modular interpretation of a classic army sweater in our small family run factory just outside Modena, Italy.
WHAT WAS YOUR INSPIRATION?
Having previously worked in menswear, I have always been inspired by utilitarian and military clothing, so I wanted to create a modern re-interpretation of a classic rib army sweater, with quilted shoulder patch detailing. Taking inspiration from a vintage army sweater, I challenged myself to translate the Marfa Stance signature modular concept into a luxurious, multi-wear wool, cashmere knit! The end result means the Rib Crew can be worn in up to 5 different ways, adapting to suit your style or the changing climate.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO MAKE?
It takes around two days to produce with all the detailed steps involved to knit, assemble and finish.
HOW MANY ARTISANS WORK ON IT AND WHO ARE THEY?
It takes around 8 artisans to craft the Rib Crew in a small hand-selected factory near San Prospero just outside of Modena, Italy.
WHAT ARE THE KEY DESIGN ELEMENTS?
The Rib Crew is knitted in a chunky rib design with a soft yet structured Italian wool, cashmere yarn. Its intricate buildable construction allows the piece to be worn in five different ways, and demonstrates impeccable Italian craftsmanship. It has a collarless neckline so that the detachable neck can easily layer to transform the style into a roll neck sweater, whilst the button off sleeve detail gives the ability to be worn as either a vest or sweater for wear year-round.
The padded and quilted reinforcement shoulder patches are made in a durable cotton/nylon mix to add comfort when wearing a shoulder bag, and also a durable fabric to protect wear on the delicate cashmere yarns when wearing a bag. It has a fully fashioned cut away cuff detail, designed to ergonomically fit on the wrist, the same functional reason as our Quilts, to make it more comfortable, easier to type, wear gloves etc. A high, low hem allows for easy tucking into high waisted trousers, with a longer flattering back length. There is also a mesh stitch on the back side body for ventilation.
WHAT ARE THE MODULAR ELEMENTS?
The Rib Crew is the ultimate modular sweater, perfect layered inside all Marfa Stance outwear. It’s uniquely removable sleeves and versatile buildable collar mean this timeless design can be adapted and worn in multiple combinations to evolve with you through the seasons. The buildable neck can easily layer inside the neckline to transform into a roll neck sweater, as well as removed if too warm or worn separately as a snood. The uniquely removable sleeves mean the sweater can be worn without as a thermal vest for layering and can also be worn half buttoned for ventilation and a more dramatic silhouette.