.jpg)
Material research and development are an integral part of Stone Island’s identity. The brand refers to their design studio as “The LAB,” and you can find a whole page on their website dedicated to the material experimentation process. You might be familiar with their shiny Metal Shell, or the thermosensitive knits.
In the brand’s latest endeavors, leather was the test subject. The newly developed Light Leather Organza incorporates cutting-edge techniques in its making, and debuted in the form of the Fall/Winter 2024 0100002 Light Leather Organza Jacket. We were intrigued at the idea of a lightweight, water-resistant technical jacket made of leather, so we took a closer look to see for ourselves.
Let’s start with the jacket’s construction. Many of Stone Island’s designs draw inspiration from military wear, as does this one, sporting mostly a classic parka silhouette. It has wide kimono sleeves with the brand’s signature patch on the left arm, concealed zip pockets at the chest, expandable hand pockets, and an extra snap-fastening bellows pocket on the lower right back. Taped seams and a waterproof two-way front zipper ensure maximum protection from the elements. There’s also an array of adjustable details, such as the drawstrings at the back of the hood and hem, and velcro tabs at the cuff to fit the sleeves to the wearer’s wrist. The internal Dutch rope system–found in other Stone Island jackets as well–gives the option of attaching a liner for extra warmth.
Now, onto the star of the show: the Light Leather Organza material itself. This is a new technical fabric, for which a thin lambskin is bonded to a lightweight polyester organza. Commonly found in womenswear, organza is a sheer plain-weave material that is used on its own or in gathered layers to provide volume under dresses. Stone Island utilized the non-stretch characteristic of woven fabrics by bonding the organza on the membrane of the leather, creating a durable yet lightweight piece that retains the leather’s external appearance. Over time, the jacket will age normally like any other leather, becoming softer and molding to the owner’s body.
Price-wise, the 0100002 Jacket retails for $3,910, falling in Stone Island’s mid-range compared to some of the brand’s other leather jacket offerings, which can run upwards of $6,400. It might be relatively more affordable as this model is lightweight with minimal lining.
Stone Island’s material innovation continues to amaze. Who would’ve thought that incorporating leather with a dressmaking fabric would create a fancy gorpcore jacket?
Read the full article here
.jpg)
