Chapal, leather apparel and accessories made for heroes

Like only a handful of other French houses, Chapal’s beginning dates back to the early 19th century, more precisely 1832. In its first stages, the brand specialized in dyeing and tanning rabbit skins. Moving from a French province to the city of Paris in 1857, the company grew into a full tannery, creating fur hats and clothes, and soon opened an additional production unit in Brooklyn, New York.  This type of growth was a strategy that was certainly not common at that time and therefore required an adventurous spirit. This “spirit” which is still considered an essential signature of Chapal today is evident in the collections featuring pieces which are rooted in history, and yet seem absolutely modern. One can only wonder whether it is the art of genuine French manufacturing or if it is the inspiration from the heroes who first wore those clothes, that is so alluring to the consumer today. French aviators in 1914, Charles Lindbergh in 1925, and USA army air force pilots all dressed in bomber jackets produced by Chapal because of the practicality of the garment. The house became known around the world for the robustness and practicality of its jackets.  Later on, in 1970, the house was so well respected that it was invited to bring its expertise of leather and fur into the finest world of couture, creating luxury ready to wear items for the house of Christian Dior.

Undoubtedly, rising to the challenge of unexpected demands is clearly a large part of Chapal’s DNA. The company’s creative teams master the art of combining sophistication with the highest level of quality, and even extended their craftsmanship to manufacture custom made products, such as luxury car interiors as well as personal made-to-order luggage. Participation and sponsorship in the European sport of automobile racing and similar prestige events still exemplify the Chapal adventurous spirit and touch of class that is so deeply anchored in the house.

There has always been a strong personality that can be found in every piece of each collection.

Is it because the company’s story is marked by history and it includes true heroes or is it because of the high quality of its products that Chapal has such a reputation?  There has always been a strong personality that can be found in every piece of each collection. The garments seem to tell a story and make us want to adopt them. Incredibly fashionable, they are also extraordinary versatile and have a long lasting quality that has become rare nowadays. For example, imagine the shearling bomber jacket worn over a pair of jeans and sneakers for week-end travel and then again, in the city, over fine wool flannel trousers and the matching tailored jacket. The combination between sophistication and quality is the ultimate touch of chic that brings out one’s style sensibility. For a woman, wrapping up in that same fur lined leather jacket, allows for warm stylish comfort over a light dress.  And for a Sunday brunch, wearing the jacket with the combination of jeans, booties and a sweater is the ultimate in chic.

So much more than a status symbol, Chapal’s beautiful leather jackets seem to be timeless, since they adapt to all style visions; nostalgic to futuristic, and to all situations. Like heritage pieces, they become a real part of people’s lives and when worn well, can then be passed on to the next generation to be styled and worn over again.  A very romantic tradition which is just one way to express the attitude that characterizes Chapal.