This Sunday, we will be unveiling a brand-new waxed cotton piece, designed to keep you dry and developed alongside the esteemed British mill British Millerain. Sound familiar? That is no surprise: the workshop is renowned for its long-standing work with many specialist outdoor brands. Here is a closer look at this exceptional British mill.
Since the 1880s, British Millerain has been developing technical fabrics for both military use and country pursuits. In 1894, the mill patented its first rain-resistant waxed cloth; in the years that followed, numerous iterations were created, offering a broader spectrum of waterproof materials. A focused craftsmanship honed over decades: safe to say our first parka is in good hands!
While the mill first made its name in Europe, it quickly won over the United States before building a worldwide reputation. The quality of its waxed fabrics was refined, notably through technological advances that brought greater precision and fineness, all while staying true to its founding values: creating natural fabrics resistant to water, soil and everyday wear.
Why is waxed canvas so universally loved? Whether for its waterproof properties or its unique, timeless aesthetic, this iconic fabric has long held pride of place in the outerwear collections of the most respected brands. We are no exception.
And its history only adds to the fascination. In the 15th century, sailors were exposed to the fury of the wind, rain and waves, with very little protection against the elements. Their survival depended partly on the strength and waterproof qualities of their garments, which had to shield them effectively, notably by keeping them dry to preserve body heat.
English sailors applied linseed oil to their uniforms made from heavy linen canvas, which provided effective water resistance while remaining relatively lightweight. Garments treated this way could also serve as extra protection for deckhands braving biting winds and ocean spray.
Their survival depended partly on the strength and waterproof qualities of their garments, which had to shield them effectively, notably by keeping them dry to preserve body heat.
Over time, the demand for supple yet resilient garments grew, paving the way for finer and more high-performing fabrics.
In the 18th century, a cotton weaving mill perfected the technique of applying linseed oil to canvas, a method swiftly adopted by the Royal Navy. Yet far from perfect, linseed oil yellowed over time and cracked in cold weather, losing its protective properties.
British Millerain, by then well established in cotton finishing, set out to solve this issue by developing a paraffin-based wax that provided garments with both superior durability and breathability. This process laid the foundations for the waxed cotton we know today.
The exceptional quality of British Millerain's wax finish quickly caught the attention of numerous workshops, which began sending their fabrics to the renowned mill to achieve this flawless finish. Through this growing network, British Millerain fabrics reached as far as New Zealand, before becoming a staple among the leading brands in Britain.
British Millerain, holding a monopoly on waxed cloth at the time, decided to patent its creations to ensure its craftsmanship remained within the family. Gradually, the family business acquired new mills, expanding its influence across European and American markets. Today, the demand for British Millerain waxed fabrics drives the company to innovate and excel, blending heritage, technology and environmental responsibility.
With the desire to design a jacket with clean, minimalist lines—crafted in an iconic, durable fabric with that authentic raw look we love—we are delighted to have collaborated with one of the finest British mills of our time, keeping alive a craftsmanship passed down through generations.
See you this Sunday to discover it!
