Zimmerli of Switzerland has been creating iconic styles for 150 years. First and foremost, the legendary Zimmerli Tank Top. Originally intended discreetly as an undershirt, it gained widespread attention and cult status through numerous appearances in Hollywood films. Find out in our photo series how the tank top is still made by hand in Switzerland today.
It was 1930, and based on the double-rib innovation of our founder Pauline Zimmerli, an undershirt was created in the sewing room of Zimmerli of Switzerland that has endured to this day: the Richelieu Tank Top. The exclusive rib, the ultra-light handle and the body-hugging cut make the tank top unique.
From undershirt to Hollywood star
The undershirt owes its worldwide fame and cult status to boxers, action figures and superheroes. In numerous Hollywood movies, the essential was a faithful companion in any situation - no matter whether sweaty, blood splattered or torn. So it became THE undershirt par excellence, the look emblematic of cool guys and tough men.
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Tough men & cool guys.
The creation of an icon
How is the Zimmerli undershirt actually made? How does cotton yarn become an iconic tank top? The secret to the incomparable look and quality lies in Swiss production. Each individual Richelieu top is created through small but delicate steps, with a lot of passion and numerous nimble hand movements. This is how each piece becomes unique.
The fabric
The fabric for the Richelieu Tank Top is made of Pima cotton, which is sourced from long-term local partners. The yarns are processed into the fabric using a special flat knitting machine in Ermatingen, Switzerland, and only 15 meters of it are produced per day. Due to the unique knitting process of the double rib, the tank top not only has a distinctive look, but also offers unparalleled wearing comfort.
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The cut
After knitting, the fine and, thanks to the double rib, extremely elastic fabric is further processed in Zimmerli of Switzerland's in-house sewing shop. For this purpose, each individual piece is cut by hand with scissors.
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The seam
To ensure that the tank top can accompany action heroes in every situation and give long-lasting pleasure to ordinary mortals, the edges are sewn. With years of craftsmanship passed down through generations, the hems are sewn.
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The finishing
Icons are created only with care and precision. After making up, the finishing touches are done by hand, with needle and thread. The seams are finely edged with stitches, so that the seam does not fray. All so that the undershirt thus not only looks classy, but also provides the unmistakable comfort.
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The packaging
To ship the icon around the globe, each masterpiece is hand-packed and personalized. And who knows, maybe another Hollywood star will open this very package full of history.
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P.S.: By the way, the icon is also available as Richelieu Styles for women.
