Vilebrequin's Limited-Edition Mistral Swim Trunks: Wearable Art with Hermès-Inspired Repairs
The 55-year-old French swimwear label Vilebrequin, hailing from Saint-Tropez, has introduced its Mistral collection of limited-edition swim trunks, produced in batches of 99, 199, or 299. These trunks showcase ocean-themed embroidery and solid silver aglets. CEO Roland Herlory, previously with Hermès, highlights the significance of intricate embroidery. Crafted from 100% recycled polyamide, they feature a mesh lining made from the same fabric. For registered customers, the brand provides a repair policy, with the initial repair complimentary. The term 'Vilebrequin,' which translates to 'crankshaft,' reflects the passion of founder Fred Prysquel for automobiles. Each pair is priced at $750, and replacing the lining costs around $40, potentially taking over two months.
Key facts
- Vilebrequin's Mistral line is limited to editions of 99, 199, or 299 per design and color.
- The trunks feature embroidery with oceanic motifs and solid silver aglets on drawstrings.
- Roland Herlory, former Hermès executive, has been Vilebrequin's CEO since 2012.
- The trunks are made from 100% recycled polyamide and have a mesh lining of the same material.
- Customers who register their trunks within six months get the first repair free; subsequent repairs cost a nominal fee.
- The word 'Vilebrequin' means 'crankshaft' in French, and the sea turtle mascot is stamped on the back pocket buttons.
- Embroidery is done by artisans in Italy, Switzerland, and France, with designs like seaweed resembling X-ray images.
- The trunks are priced at $750, and lining replacement costs about $40 but can take over two months.
- The article also mentions a Boucheron necklace with 580 carats of smoky quartz and a report on Rolex prices returning to pre-pandemic levels.
Entities
Artists
- Roland Herlory
- Fred Prysquel
- Justin Fenner
Institutions
- Vilebrequin
- Hermès
- Robb Report
Locations
- Saint-Tropez
- France
- Italy
- Switzerland