Dec 13, 2023

Made in Italy, Shantung Ties

For our newest editions of S hantung ties, we've partnered with a family-run factory off the Amalfi coast, for authentically Italian handmade ties.

We're passionate about working with the very best tiemakers in the world, artisans who have devoted their lives to the serious business of hand-stitching the finest ties. And as our wonderful Shantung silks are made in Italy, it made sense to us to have our ties made by Italian artisans as well.

OUR SHANTUNG SILK

Our silk is woven in northern Italy using both traditional and modern machines and methods, by experienced craftsmen working to the highest standards. Established as a centre of silk production since the 16th century, northern Italy is synonymous with the highest quality silks which we are proud to use for our Shantung ties.

OUR TIE MAKERS

The fabric then finds its way to the Amalfi coast, to be hand-sewn by our tie makers.

Our products are handmade in the factory following ancient tailoring techniques: templates, chalk and scissors, needle and thread, expertise, passion and a lot of patience! Each element marks a phase of the artisanal manufacturing process of the tie, resulting in a perfect product, with excellent finishes that give the accessory resistance and softness, in addition to the prestige of a handmade tie. Our products are made with love and dedication and are made to last.

THE HISTORY OF TIE MAKING IN ITALY

Italy has a rich and illustrious history in the fashion world, and its contribution to tie-making is no exception. The origins of Italian tie-making can be traced back to the early 20th century when the country's skilled craftsmen began to revolutionise the traditional necktie.

In the 1920s, a shift occurred as Italian tailors started experimenting with new fabrics, patterns, and designs, deviating from the conventional and conservative ties of the time. This innovative spirit led to the birth of distinctive Italian styles that quickly gained international acclaim. Milan, Florence, and Como emerged as key centres for tie production, fostering an environment where artisans could showcase their creativity and craftsmanship.

The legacy of Italian tie-making stands as a testament to the country's enduring commitment to craftsmanship and style.

Discover Our Shantung Collection

WHAT IS SHANTUNG FABRIC?

One of our core values at Rampley & Co is to only work with the highest quality materials, and using the finest shantung silk fabrics matches us perfectly in this case. Shantung is a high end, best in class type of silk fabric with characteristic irregular ridges known as slubs running through the fabric. Like many silk fabrics, shantung is crisp, and its lightness causes it to drape elegantly. It's one of the thinnest forms of silk fabric on the market, and with its added texture, is considered one of the finest silks available.

HISTORY OF SHANTUNG SILK

Shantung originated in the Chinese province of Shandong which is the origin of the fabrics namesake. The majority of silk production takes place in the southern parts of China, which has contributed to shantung’s following & mass appeal. Shandong Province is considered to be one of the holiest areas in China, and it holds great significance within the Taoist and Confucian spiritual systems.

Until the 20th century, all of the shantung garments in manufacturing consisted of commonplace silk fibres. With the rise of synthetic fibres across clothing, however, textile producers gained the aptitude to recreate the characteristic attributes of shantung with polyester and other substances. Synthetic shantung, however, lacks the finesse and durability of authentic silk shantung found in the cloth.