For 150 years, Zimmerli of Switzerland has been creating iconic styles. First and foremost, the legendary Zimmerli Tank Top. Originally conceived discreetly as an undershirt, it gained widespread attention and cult status through numerous appearances in Hollywood films. Find out in our photo series, how the tank top is still made by hand in Switzerland today.

The year was 1930, and based on the double-rib innovation of our founder Pauline Zimmerli, an undershirt was created in the sewing room of Zimmerli of Switzerland that has endured to this day: the Richelieu Tank Top. The exclusive rib, ultra-light feel and body-hugging cut make the tank top unique.

From undershirt to Hollywood star

His worldwide fame and cult status owes the undershirt boxers, action figures and superheroes. In numerous Hollywood films, the essential was a faithful companion in any situation – no matter whether sweaty, provided with blood splatters or torn. So it became THE undershirt par excellence, the look emblematic of cool boys and tough men.

Tough men & cool boys.

The making of an icon

How is the Zimmerli undershirt actually created? How does cotton yarn become an iconic tank top? The secret to its incomparable look and quality lies in Swiss production. Each individual Richelieu top is created through small but delicate steps, with a lot of passion and numerous nimble hand movements. Thus, each piece becomes unique.

The fabric

The fabric for the Richelieu Tank Top is made from Pima cotton, which is sourced from long-standing local partners. The yarns are processed into the fabric using a special flat knitting machine in Ermatingen, Switzerland, and only 15 meters of it are made per day. Due to the unique knitting process of the double rib, the tank top not only has a distinctive look, but also offers unparalleled wearing comfort.

The cut

After knitting, the fine and, thanks to the double rib, extremely elastic fabric is further processed in Zimmerli of Switzerland's in-house sewing shop. For this purpose, each individual piece is cut by hand with scissors.

The seam

To ensure that the tank top can accompany action heroes in any situation and give long pleasure to ordinary people, the edges are sewn. With years of craftsmanship passed down through generations, the hems are sewn.

The refinement

Icons are created only with care and accuracy. After the confection, the finishing touches are made by hand, with needle and thread. The seams are finely edged with stitches, so that the seam can not fray. All so that the undershirt thus not only looks classy, but also offers the unmistakable wearing comfort.

The packaging

To ship the icon around the globe, each masterpiece is hand-packaged and personalized. And who knows, maybe another Hollywood star will open this very package full of history.

By the way, the icon is also available as Richelieu Styles for women.