The Remade in Switzerland by Christopher Raeburn Cocoon Blouson for autumn/winter ’11.

Re-appropriating and deconstructing fabrics originally used to create sleeping bags for the Swiss Army, this unique jacket is an innovative re-creation from the mind of Christopher Raeburn, commissioned by the iconic Swiss brand Victorinox.

While researching the collection Christopher found two types of sleeping bag material: the first was a warm padded material used for the sleeping bag itself; the other was a tough waterproof material used to create a weather-proof outer layer used to cover the first. With this jacket the waterproof material is utilised on the hood, across the shoulder yoke and at the elbow.

Homage is paid to the sleeping bag by the fact that the blouson folds up into a sleeping-bag-style roll, and is secured by two straps that, when not in use, button onto the back of the jacket. Further warmth is added by wool cuffs, created from re-used Swiss Army jumpers.

Swiss through-and-through, the zips are Riri and a red Swiss cross shield sits proudly on the left sleeve. It is actually a legal requirement that only products made in Switzerland can display this shield in red, and Christopher is proud to see this emblem on his collection.

Finishing touches are added by the Victorinox branded press studs, which are used throughout, and warm woollen cuffs made from re-used Swiss Army jumpers. Finally, a horseshoe nail print is used on the jacket lining – a features that became the symbol of the collection for Christopher.

Re-made in Switzerland, this piece is a limited edition of 100. The polished metal plate sewn onto the lining identifies the piece’s individual number.