At Knatchbull, every garment begins long before the first stitch is sewn. It begins with exceptional materials, skilled makers and a belief that true luxury is measured not by novelty, but by longevity.
Introducing Behind the Seams, a new series exploring the craftsmanship behind some of our most-loved pieces and collections.
We begin with the Moor Cape. Crafted from British wool tweed and Austrian wool loden, this reversible outer layer was designed for changing weather and enduring wear. Behind its effortless versatility lies a story of exceptional cloth, skilled making and the enduring value of garments built to last.
DISCOVER THE COUNTRY PURSUITS COLLECTION
Crafted to Last
Inspired by the unpredictability of the British countryside, the cape was created as an answer to modern outdoor dressing. Elegant yet practical, it moves effortlessly between changing landscapes, shifting weather and everyday life.
Its generous silhouette encourages easy layering, while the reversible construction offers two distinct expressions in a single piece. One side showcases British wool tweed, rich in texture and heritage. The other is cut from Austrian wool loden, a cloth renowned for its performance, durability and natural resistance to the elements.
Rather than creating garments for a single occasion, Knatchbull designs pieces that become enduring wardrobe foundations. The cape embodies this philosophy, equally suited to windswept walks across the moor as it is layered over tailoring in the city.
In a culture increasingly defined by excess, there is something undeniably luxurious about investing in a piece that earns its place season after season.
Among the most distinctive materials used within the Country Pursuits collection is Austrian wool loden, a heritage cloth with centuries of history behind it.
Originally developed in the Alpine regions of Austria, loden is crafted from densely woven wool that undergoes a specialised finishing process to create a naturally weather-resistant surface. The result is a fabric prized for its warmth, resilience and protective qualities, making it particularly well suited to life outdoors.
Unlike technical fabrics that rely on synthetic coatings, wool loden derives its performance from the natural properties of the fibre itself. It offers protection against wind and light rain while remaining breathable and exceptionally comfortable to wear.
For the cape, Austrian wool loden was selected for both its practicality and understated elegance. Paired with British wool tweed, it creates a reversible outer layer that balances traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality.
At the heart of this combination is a simple philosophy: choosing exceptional materials that perform beautifully today and continue to do so for years to come.
The Art of Making the Cape
Behind the simplicity of the cape lies remarkable craftsmanship.
Made in England, every detail has been carefully considered, from the reversible construction to the finishing techniques that ensure lasting quality. Italian horn buttons provide a refined finishing touch, while Alcantara piping reinforces every seam, enhancing both durability and appearance.
Creating a reversible garment demands an exceptional level of precision. Every seam, finish and construction detail must be as considered on the inside as it is on the outside. It is a process requiring both technical expertise and meticulous attention to detail.
These skills belong to a long tradition of British garment making, where quality is measured not only by what is visible, but by what remains hidden beneath the surface. The balance of the silhouette, the quality of the finishing and the performance of the cloth all contribute to a piece designed to accompany years of wear.
As conversations around sustainability continue to evolve, the value of such craftsmanship becomes increasingly apparent. A well-made garment is more likely to be worn, repaired, restyled and treasured over time. Longevity, versatility and quality remain some of the most important foundations of a responsible wardrobe.
The cape reflects this approach perfectly: shaped by heritage, elevated through skilled craftsmanship and made to be worn for years to come.
