Introducing Loro Piana: The Gift of Kings
Introducing Harry Rosen’s Most Exclusive Collection of Fine Garments
The Gift of Kings collection from Loro Piana is akin to apotheosis for the world-renowned Italian luxury brand. By far the most exclusive, sought-after and softest range of clothing to bear the Loro Piana label, the Gift of Kings collection encapsulates the maker’s utmost devotion to quality and innovation.
At Harry Rosen, we’re proud to be among just two retailers within North America and the only one in Canada selected by Loro Piana to carry the inimitable line.
A Story Woven by Wool
Measuring in around 12 microns in diameter per fibre — a size even finer than most luxury cashmeres — the Gift of Kings’ Merino wool is the finest in the world.
“The fact that it’s wool, not cashmere, is astonishing,” said Adam Gallo, our Divisional Merchandise Leader and the Senior Buyer of luxury product. “When you feel and see it, there’s an unmistakable richness, drape and glow.”
Extraordinary Rarity
Our Harry Rosen flagship store on Bloor Street in Toronto is among just two retail locations in North America to offer Gift of Kings collections.
Gallo is particularly excited about how Gift of Kings brings certain tangibles to Harry Rosen that no other collection can, saying “Loro Piana decides who gets Gift of Kings collections. We’ve been asking for it for a long time and clients have asked for it by name before, but even then, it’s extremely difficult to get.”
Even the number of individual units created per collection is a fraction of what you might typically expect from comparable luxury fashion houses.
Disregard any preconceptions about what ‘wool’ feels like – Gifts of Kings garments are almost entirely unique. Drawing comparisons between this Merino wool and any other can only be comprehended through first-hand experience.
“The minute you touch it and put it on, you realize there’s nothing else like it,” Gallo admitted. Can it be compared to anything else we currently carry at Harry Rosen? “Nothing – not even close”.
Ultra-lightweight, durable, breathable, crease-resistant, incomprehensibly soft – the attributes of this Merino wool material are endless.
Gifts from Kings
The Gift of Kings’ unique name dates back to the 18th Century, before these Merino sheep ever roamed the lush pastures of Australia and New Zealand and when their incomparably fine fleeces were still kept secret by Spain’s ruling monarchy. At the time, these sheep were seen as a coveted natural source of wealth for Spain’s royalty and noblemen, who originally seized possession of all Merino herds and banned the trade of their precious wool.
Eventually, this natural treasure was shared with the world as the Spanish monarchy began to present the Merino sheep as gifts to other royal families across Europe in order to strengthen political alliances, hence the name “Gift of Kings”.
Naturally, these special sheep spread across the continent, and on an 18th Century expedition to Australasia led by Captain James Cook, many ultimately settled in idyllic hillside habitats found across Australia and New Zealand where generations of devoted farmers have tended to them since.
Due to the Gift of Kings’ exceptional exclusivity, it can be difficult for even the most fervent collectors to acquire pieces. Should you be interested in learning more about the Gift of Kings collection, connect with your Harry Rosen Clothing Advisor for more information.