Loro Piana: A century-long journey of fibres and legacy

For the first time, Loro Piana is showcasing its rich history through an exhibition, highlighting its mastery of fibres and the treasures of its archives

Loro Piana, a name synonymous with luxury textiles, is celebrating its legacy with its first-ever exhibition. This event marks a significant milestone in the maison's history, offering a unique opportunity to explore its journey and the art of fibre mastery.

Loro Piana's first-ever exhibition

The exhibition, titled "If You Know, You Know. Loro Piana’s Quest for Excellence", will run from March 22 to May 5, 2025 at Museum of Art Pudong (MAP), Shanghai. Visitors will have the chance to experience the evolution of Loro Piana's craftsmanship and its impact on the world of textiles.

This event is not merely a showcase of products; it is a journey through time, highlighting the maison's dedication to excellence. The exhibition will offer insight into how Loro Piana has maintained its position as a leader in the industry.

Coinciding with the opening of its exhibition is the Loro Piana Cashmere of the Year Award which celebrates its 9th and 10th editions in 2025. These mark a significant milestone in the maison's pursuit of excellence. The award ceremony was held in Shanghai at the Museum of Art Pudong on March 20.

Each year, winners receive a financial reward of US$100 per kilo of fibre produced, along with an intricately crafted silver comb symbolising the cashmere gathering process. This comb is mounted on a wooden base with the winners' names engraved on a silver tag and presented in a luxurious cashmere box.

Loro Piana's commitment to cashmere quality in China spans over 30 years, fostering strong relationships with local communities and raising awareness about the importance of prioritising quality over quantity. This effort aims to protect the millennial-old heritage of cashmere in China, particularly in Inner Mongolia. The maison's quest for the finest cashmere is driven by respect and passion, emphasising collaboration with herders to achieve perpetual excellence while contributing to responsible sourcing practices.

Loro Piana archive

At the heart of Loro Piana's success lies its extensive archive. This treasure trove contains historical documents, photographs and fabric samples that tell the story of the maison's development. This record is a valuable resource, providing a glimpse into the past and inspiring future innovations, and has been meticulously compiled since the Loro Piana's inception. 

One of the most fascinating aspects of the archive is its collection of early fabric sample books. These books contain intricate designs and materials that have influenced generations of textile designers. They serve as a reminder of maison's rich heritage and its role in shaping the fashion industry.

Master of fibres

Loro Piana is renowned for its mastery of fibres, particularly cashmere and vicuña. The maison's ability to source and process these rare materials has set it apart from competitors early on. Its commitment to quality is evident in every product, from luxurious clothing to exquisite house textiles.

The art of fibre mastery involves understanding the unique properties of each material and how to bring out their best qualities. The maison's expertise in this area has allowed it to create durable and beautiful products.

As you explore the exhibition, you will see examples of how Loro Piana's mastery of fibres has influenced fashion and design. From the softness of cashmere to the elegance of vicuña, each fibre is a testament to the maison's dedication to excellence.

This showcase is a celebration of the maison's history and its mastery of fibres. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of luxury textiles and understand what makes Loro Piana a leader in its field.

Whether you are a fashion enthusiast or simply interested in craftsmanship, check out Loro Piana's inaugural display of its evolution for a glimpse into the rise of a successful and much beloved fashion maison. 

Also see: Loro Piana brings enchanting 'Workshop of Wonders' to Harrods