Fusalp is a brand born in the French Alps in 1952. It transfigured Alpine skiwear by creating the first technical stirrup pants, which were then adorned by the French ski team in the ’60s.
However, Fusalp’s place in fashion is not restricted to the slopes. Adapting to the modern urban vibrations, the brand has created “a wardrobe that mirrors the image of a conquering heroine,” bringing a daring spirit to the modern traveller’s wardrobe. It has continued to harmoniously combine technicality, comfort and style–showcased in their latest collection.
I spoke to Vanessa Monson, the public relations officer at Fusalp to find out more about the brand’s Spring/Summer 22 collection and the inspiration behind the dynamic luxury range.</ p>
Can you tell us a little bit more about your latest SS22 collection?
“Fusalp’s Artistic Director Mathilde Lacoste imagined this collection with today’s modern society in mind–well thought garments that accompany us between seasons, from rain to shine, protecting the body like a second skin while remaining stylish and functional,” says Vanessa.
“As contemporary nomads, we split our time travelling between a bustling city life in capitals such as London, Oslo, or Paris, and escaping to disconnect in nature in places such as Biarritz or Nice. We find the importance of garments that allow us to move seamlessly through all climates and lifestyles. For Fulsap’s Spring/Summer 2022 collection, we are reminded of the DNA of the brand—commitment, performance and optimism—key to the creation of a wardrobe with a positive aesthetic and technical spirit.”
What three words describe the collection?
“Timeless, functional, sport-chic.”
What contemporary fashion trends have influenced this collection?
“The collection is influenced by athleisure and sportswear, enhanced by the concept of layering. Throughout this collection, Fusalp stays true to its DNA and historical expertise in high performance technical materials.”
How does the new collection maintain the three pillars of Fusalp- technicality, functionality and elegance?
“Our collections stays true to the brands heritage, and each garment has a particular identity. It can be recognised by its tailoring codes like the smock, the side stripes, the boudins, matching heritage colours from the seasonal palette, and by the cut. This activewear wardrobe which is suited to wellness and outdoor activities, adapts to our daily life while elongating the figure and emphasising the curves of the body, with elegance.”
How should people feel when wearing the new garments from SS22?
“Freedom and comfort while remaining elegant,” says Vanessa when questioned about the emotional aspect of the collection. “Fusalp’s timeless and long-lasting pieces are infused with the iconic sport-chic DNA of the brand, which have been designed to last and can be passed down from generation to generation.”
What piece do you love most about the collection?
“Fusalp’s fresh interpretation of the classic denim jacket, designed by Mathilde Lacoste, is the PRUNE II jacket–which is a favourite. It is made using lightweight technical stretch nylon with ultra-thin and high-performance insulation–and tested in a cold room at -10°C. This revolutionary insulation is made of recycled down and organic plant fibres. The PRUNE II jacket ensures optimum warmth and comfort, giving it the same level of thermal performance as a ski jacket and can be paired with denim or activewear.”
How do you see a brand like AiSPi, a platform for niche designers, and Fusalp, a luxury skiwear brand working together?
“The Fusalp clientele looks for timeless, elegant, on-point staples which are in tune with our lives on the move – an important value that we both share.”
How important is seasonality for Fusalp? How can the collections be worn all year round?
“Each Fusalp collection is designed to be worn from season to season – whether on the slopes or in the city. For example, the men’s Gezi Coat, a best-seller of the brand, is a long parka with a precise and fitted cut. Designed in stretch material with a very high performance membrane and filled with down and feathers for optimal warmth, this piece protects against the extreme cold while remaining thin and light. It’s easy to slip on for an evening in the mountains after a long day of skiing or for a modern, chic look in the city.”
How are Fusalp's collections suitable for countries such as India outside of the European climate?
“To wear a Fusalp garment is to adopt a committed and conquering attitude. It means looking for quality and comfort as well as fit and elegance. It means choosing garments that accompany and liberate movement, thanks to the choice of materials that compose them. It means feeling free in the practice of one’s activities, no matter where your destination.”
What is on the horizon this year for Fusalp?
“This year we celebrate the 70th anniversary of the brand, with the release of ‘The Joy of Movement’ book which follows the history of Fusalp, along with our first US flagships opening in Aspen and New York this fall.”
