Manteco for Fortela

The Manteco-for-Fortela collaboration began in 2019 when Alessandro Squarzi, founder of Fortela, came up with a unique and ambitious project – to pay tribute to Sir Winston Churchill and his iconic World War II-era overcoat. Squarzi chose Manteco to partner with, out of his longtime friendship with the Mantellassi family, owners of the storied textile firm based in the Tuscan province of Prato, and the mutual esteem that marks their relationship. Manteco is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and its excellence in the textile sector. The Manteco-for-Fortela collaboration first led to the creation of the Winston Coat. Through painstaking archival research, Squarzi and his team of Fortela designers carefully studied the fabric of Churchill’s overcoat to recreate its distinctive texture and exceptional durability, and at the same time added the style and quality typical of Fortela. Each detail, from the selection of the wool to the processes used in the finishing, was studied in-depth to guarantee authenticity and excellence. Manteco, founded in the 1940s by Enzo Anacleto Mantellassi, is a leader textile recycling and the sustainable production of luxury fabrics. The company began by recycling army surplus, which it transformed into new fabrics through mechanical and water-based processes rather than relying on the use of chemicals. Their commitment to sustainability and technological innovation makes Manteco the perfect partner for Fortela. And the Winston Coat, which combines tradition and modernity, celebrates the legacy of Sir Winston Churchill. Not only a tribute to one of history’s great icons, it sets new standards excellence in design and sustainability. Fortela’s partnership with Manteco is testimony to the power of Italian tradition combined with innovation to create unique, timeless fashion. Besides hailing an historical symbol, the Manteco-for-Fortela collaboration brings to light the importance of sustainable practices in today’s world of fashion. Attention to detail and the quality of the materials guarantee that the beauty and durability of every garment come with respect for the environment.