C.P. Company

May 21, 2024

C.P Company | A Journey Through Fashion and Football Culture

C.P. Company, an iconic Italian fashion brand, has left an indelible mark on the world of casual wear, blending innovative design with cultural resonance. Founded in 1971 by Massimo Osti, a visionary designer known for his experimental approach to textiles and garment dyeing, C.P. Company quickly became a pioneer in the fashion industry.

Massimo Osti, often dubbed the “godfather of sportswear,” established C.P. Company with a mission to merge functionality with style. His background in graphic design played a crucial role in shaping his unique perspective on fashion. Osti was not just a designer; he was an inventor. He introduced groundbreaking techniques such as garment dyeing, which allowed for vibrant colours and a soft, worn-in feel, and the use of unusual materials like rubber wool and thermo-sensitive fabrics. In 1982, Otsi would also found Stone Island, another fashion brand synonymous withe football culture.

C.P Company Goggle Jacket — © C.P Company

The brand’s most iconic creation, the Mille Miglia Jacket, now more popularly known as the Goggle Jacket, exemplifies Osti’s innovative spirit. Inspired by military uniforms and workwear, the Goggle Jacket features built-in lenses on the hood, combining practicality with a distinctive aesthetic. This piece, along with other utilitarian designs like the Watch Viewer, cemented C.P. Company’s reputation for technical outerwear.

Chester Perry was the original name of C.P. Company. Inspired by a fictional company from the comic strip “Brenda Starr, Reporter,” Osti chose the name to reflect a sense of individuality and distinctiveness. The Chester Perry brand quickly gained recognition but 1978, due to trademark issues with brands bearing similar names like Fred Perry, Osti rebranded Chester Perry to C.P. Company. Despite the name change, the brand continued to uphold its reputation for pioneering design and quality, laying the foundation for its future success and cultural impact.

From Paninaro to Football Casuals

C.P. Company first gained cultural prominence in the 1980s, becoming a favorite among the Paninaro, a subculture of affluent Italian youth. Named after the Panino sandwich bars in Milan where they congregated, the Paninaro were known for their obsession with designer labels and upscale casual fashion. C.P. Company’s blend of high-quality materials and innovative design made it a perfect fit for this style-conscious group. The brand’s pieces were not just clothing; they were status symbols, representing the Paninaro’s pursuit of a luxurious yet casual lifestyle.

The cultural relevance of C.P. Company expanded beyond Italy as it caught the eye of British football casuals in the late 1980s and 1990s. This subculture, born from football supporters who traveled across Europe, adopted the brand for its stylish yet functional attire. The football casuals were known for their keen interest in designer sportswear, and C.P. Company’s durable and distinctive garments suited their needs perfectly. The Goggle Jacket, in particular, became a staple among these fans, symbolising a blend of sports culture and high fashion.

C.P. Company’s influence on contemporary fashion remains strong. The brand’s commitment to innovation and quality continues to attract new generations of fashion enthusiasts. Modern collections often revisit Osti’s original designs, updating them with contemporary techniques and materials while maintaining the brand’s core identity.

Collaborations with other iconic brands and designers have helped C.P. Company stay relevant in an ever-evolving fashion landscape. These partnerships celebrate the brand’s heritage while pushing the boundaries of what casual wear can be. The Goggle Jacket, for example, has seen numerous reinterpretations, ensuring its place as a timeless piece in the world of fashion.

C.P. Company’s journey from its founding by Massimo Osti to its current status as a cultural icon is a testament to its innovative spirit and lasting appeal. From the Paninaro youth of Milan to the football casuals of Britain, the brand has consistently resonated with those who value style, functionality, and uniqueness. C.P. Company stands as a symbol of ingenuity and cultural relevance, continuing to influence and inspire the world of fashion.