Merz b. Schwanen

Merz b. Schwanen is a brand with a backstory like no other. In 2009, husband and wife Peter and Gitta Plotnicki uncovered a beautiful old garment in a German flea market. The garment immediately piqued the couple’s curiosity. The label, still attached to this vintage Henley-style undershirt, clearly read “Merz b. Schwanen”.

After some research, the two designers discovered the label to mark a brand from the Swabian Alps dating back to the early 20th century. Merz b. Schwanen specialised in German-made tubular knit garments.

Several years before, this unique business succumbed to the pressures of globalisation after a long period of diminishing orders. Peter and Gitta were determined to look deeper into this fascinating compass of domestic textile history. The pair uncovered a museum of circular knitting machines dating from the 1920s to the 1960s. Coated in dust, the machines had remained unused for decades.

Undaunted by the task of getting these vintage looms restored, the Plotnickis decided to recover the brand. With a steadfast sense of purpose, the brand known affectionatly as Merz B, launched its first collection under the Plotnickis in 2011.

Merz b. Schwanen has consistently held a clear vision of reviving traditionally made knitwear for the modern day. T-shirts, sweatshirts, pants, underwear, socks and accessories - this brand literally has you covered.

The team at Merz b. Schwanen manufacture all garments in a sustainable way, using animal-friendly materials with experience and heart in equal measure. Discover a great collection of garments from Merz b. Schwanen for sale here at Rivet & Hide.