Who’s the designer behind the designer? How does a fabric pattern influence the choices of the major fashion stylists? Through a brilliant essay by Bruce Boyer, The Fabric aims to answer these questions, offering in-depth insight into the world of Vitale Barberis Canonico. “Excellence is achieved when good taste, good working techniques and experience bring out the qualities of the raw materials to the same high standards.” This is the motto of Francesco Barberis Canonico, whose family traces its involvement in the textile business back to 1663. On the occasion of the company’s 350th anniversary, Fredi Marcarini has realised the photographic portraits of ten classic patterns symbolizing the exemplary elegance cherished by Vitale Barberis Canonico, one of the largest producers of finest fabrics for tailor-made suits in Italy.