For Klaus Plank and Barbara Cavalli of Bergfabel, design is not just an art form, but a way of life. They make their clothes not simply for others but for themselves, creating pieces intended to live in and look stylish doing so. Their collection is a love letter to the classics–well-made, tailored pieces with just the right amount of artful crumple. Their clothing is effortless and layerable, made with natural textiles that move seamlessly between seasons. While Shobhan and Tatiana were in Paris, they visited with Barbara and Klaus—who shared a bit more about the Italian clothing line’s inspiration and process. Read along for an interview with Bergfabel.
What is the essence of Bergfabel?
The essence of Bergfabel is a deep connection to nature, tradition, and craftsmanship. It tells the story of South Tyrol through high-quality clothing that reflects simplicity, family life, and poetic beauty. The brand values authenticity and timeless design, bringing the spirit of the mountains to the world.
How would you like people to feel when wearing your clothing?
We want people to feel connected to nature, tradition, and quality. When wearing Bergfabel, they should feel comfortable, confident, and surrounded by a sense of poetry and timeless beauty. Our clothing is made to bring warmth, authenticity, and a touch of the mountains into everyday life.
What compels you to create clothing?
I want to share the culture and beauty of my home, South Tyrol. Clothing is a way to tell a story—about nature, tradition, and a simple, poetic way of life. I believe in quality and craftsmanship, making pieces that feel timeless and personal. My goal is to create something meaningful, where people can feel connected to the essence of the mountains and the warmth of family life.
Can you tell us about how you source textiles?
My process of sourcing textiles is deeply personal and intuitive. I travel to select mills in Italy and Japan, searching for fabrics that have a special touch, texture, and story. I work closely with artisans who share our values of quality and tradition.
I believe fabric should speak to the senses—its weight, softness, and movement must feel just right. Touching and feeling each textile is essential before I decide to use it and it takes a long time. Some fabrics are custom-made for us, inspired by traditional weaves and vintage garments, ensuring a unique character.
What is the inspiration behind your silhouettes?
The inspiration behind our silhouettes comes from my past and my wife. Memories of traditional South Tyrolean workwear, the way people dressed in the mountains, and the simplicity of rural life all influence the shapes of our garments. My wife also inspires me—her elegance, her sense of poetry, and the way she moves bring a soft, timeless feeling to the designs.
Can you tell us about how Bergfabel clothing is made?
Each Bergfabel piece is made with deep care and attention to detail. Some pieces are hand-finished, adding a personal touch that makes them special. I also focus on washing techniques to give the clothing a lived-in feel, as if it has a story of its own. Each garment is made to be worn and loved for years.
What draws you to shirting?
I love wearing shirts, but I always felt they were either too classical or too sporty. That’s why I wanted to create something different—shirts that feel timeless yet modern, structured yet relaxed.
For me, the perfect shirt should be easy to wear, with beautiful fabrics that feel natural and soft against the skin. I focus on small details—subtle proportions, special textures, and handmade touches—that make each piece unique.
They should be effortless, with a quiet elegance that fits into everyday life while still feeling special.
And then I found the best paper cotton to make them—crisp yet soft, structured yet breathable. This fabric is incredible on the skin, with a lightness that makes it feel almost weightless. It has the perfect balance: sharp enough to hold its shape, yet comfortable enough to wear all day. I love how it changes with time, becoming even more beautiful as it softens with wear. It gives the shirts a fresh, effortless elegance—never too formal, never too casual, just perfectly refined in a natural way.
What inspired the color palette for Spring?
The color palette for spring is inspired by gardens—wild, natural, and full of life. I love how nature’s imperfections create the most beautiful harmony. Faded greens, earthy neutrals, soft florals, and sun-washed tones reflect the quiet poetry of a garden in bloom.
How would you describe your approach to jackets and coats?
My approach to jackets and coats is about balancing structure and softness, tradition and modernity. I am inspired by classic workwear and traditional tailoring but reinterpret these ideas with a poetic, effortless feel.
For me, a jacket or coat should feel like a trusted companion—something you reach for every day, that carries stories and memories, and only gets better with wear.
Is there anything else you would like to tell us about Bergfabel?
Bergfabel is about quality, not trends. It is about creating garments that feel personal, that become part of your story, and that only grow more beautiful with time. My inspiration comes from my home, my past, and my family, and I hope that when you wear Bergfabel, you feel that same warmth and authenticity.
—Barbara Cavelli and Klaus Plank, with love from the mountains.
