Gran Sasso Brand Guide
OD's Gran Sasso Brand Guide
1 | Brand Overview — Quality Is Always Fashionable
That maxim defines Gran Sasso—an Italian family-founded knitwear house born in 1952 and still producing every garment entirely within Italy.
From its base in Sant'Egidio alla Vibrata (Abruzzo), Gran Sasso represents the pinnacle of Made in Italy: natural fibers, artisanal skill, and quietly confident design. Unlike mass-market knitwear labels that outsource production, Gran Sasso keeps every stage—spinning, knitting, finishing, dyeing—under Italian control.
Category: Premium Italian knitwear and luxury casualwear
Core Specialties: Cashmere • Extra Fine Merino • Silk Blends • Summer Cashmere
Price Position: Upper-premium (comparable to Brunello Cucinelli, Fedeli, Loro Piana)
Competitor Set: Cruciani • Fedeli • Malo
At OD's, we curate Gran Sasso's men's and women's collections for those who value tactile luxury and enduring craftsmanship over transient fashion. Each sweater, polo, or knit jacket is an expression of Italian permanence: style that matures, not ages.
2 | Heritage & Philosophy — From Family Workshop to Global Standard
Gran Sasso was founded in 1952 by four brothers—Nello, Eraldo, Alceo, and Francesco Di Stefano—in the small village of Sant'Egidio alla Vibrata, located just south of the border between Marche and Abruzzo.
Their ambition was simple: create the finest knitwear possible using traditional techniques and local labor.
Timeline of Growth:
- 1952 — Family workshop established in Sant'Egidio alla Vibrata
- 1970s — Transition from family business to industrial company; success in domestic and international markets
- 2002 — Construction begins on new 36,000 m² headquarters complex designed by architect Guido Canali
- 2005 — Roseto degli Abruzzi plant inaugurated (specialized in cotton loom weaving, salvaged from an old brick furnace)
- Present — Third-generation Di Stefano family members continue the legacy
Core Philosophy:
- Articles made exclusively in Italy
- Antique craftsmanship combined with modern production
- Authenticity over appearance
- Sustainability through longevity
Gran Sasso's identity remains anchored in one principle—real people making real garments in Italy.
3 | Craftsmanship & Technologies — The Art of Knit Engineering
Every Gran Sasso piece begins with fiber selection—the cornerstone of its quality. The brand operates on the principle: "Precious yarn + manual skill = uniqueness."
Signature Yarns & Origins
| Yarn Type | Origin | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Cashmere | Hircus goat – Mongolia | Exceptional warmth and softness |
| Extra Fine Merinos | New Zealand & Australia | Breathable, resilient luxury fiber |
| Cashmere & Silk Blend | Blended | Light sheen, perfect drape |
| Super Tasmanian | Tasmanian Merino | Ultra-fine and smooth |
| Super Geelong | Australian lambswool | Soft, springy texture |
| Fresh Cotton | Egyptian | High tensile strength, crisp handle |
| Lisle Yarn | Mercerised cotton | Subtle lustre, cool touch |
| Silk | Bombyx mori silkworm | Natural sheen, temperature regulation |
| Linen | European flax | Breathable, naturally sustainable |
| Organic Cotton | Certified sources | Non-toxic cultivation |
| Summer Cashmere | Lightweight cashmere | Trans-seasonal softness |
| Felted Cashmere | Compressed weave | Structural density, warmth |
| Suvin Cotton | Indian origin | Extra-long staple, refined sheen |
| Eco Cashmere | Recycled fibers | Lower environmental footprint |
| Rain Wool | Water-repellent Merino | Technical innovation in knitwear |
Manufacturing Philosophy
Every component is shaped, washed, and finished by hand. Imperfections aren't discarded; yarn is recovered, rewoven, or repaired—evidence of a zero-waste mindset grounded in craft discipline.
Gran Sasso's production includes:
- In-house industrial dyeing plant (Texcolor, founded 1980)
- Specialized cotton loom weaving facility (Roseto degli Abruzzi)
- Complete vertical integration from spinning to finishing
- Collaboration with small Italian artisan workshops
Key Construction Techniques
Linking (Rimaglio):
The most important manufacturing phase in Gran Sasso knitwear. Artisans connect garment parts needle by needle, creating seamless construction that eliminates bulk and enhances comfort. This technique was disappearing from Abruzzo until Gran Sasso revitalized it through their training academy.
Fully Fashioned Construction:
Garments are shaped during knitting rather than cut from flat fabric, eliminating waste and ensuring precise fit.
Hand-Finishing:
Every piece undergoes manual inspection and finishing touches, ensuring consistency and quality control impossible with automated systems.
4 | Cultural Presence — The Guido Canali Factory
Gran Sasso's modern headquarters—a 36,000 m² campus designed by architect Guido Canali—is more than a building; it's a declaration of philosophy.
Located in Sant'Egidio alla Vibrata, the complex integrates production, offices, dining, and training spaces within a rational, light-filled structure. Canali's architecture expresses transparency, dignity of labor, and harmony between tradition and innovation.
Architectural Recognition
The site earned an Honourable Mention at the Milan Triennale "Medaglia d'Oro all'Architettura Italiana" (2009)—a rare accolade for an industrial building.
Guido Canali, an Accademico di San Luca and professor of architectural composition, is renowned for designing workspaces for leading Italian brands including Prada, Smeg, and Pinko. His approach treats industrial architecture as an expression of ethical modernism—where work environments enhance human dignity rather than diminish it.
What Makes This Factory Unique:
- Internal courtyards and gardens — Green spaces integrated throughout, providing natural light and breathing room for workers
- Rational minimalism — Clean lines and functional beauty reflecting the brand's design ethos
- Environmental systems — Natural ventilation, sustainable materials, photovoltaic installations
- Employee-centric design — Dining facilities, training spaces, ergonomic work areas
This physical environment embodies Gran Sasso's cultural identity:
- Modernity without abandoning roots
- Industrial efficiency without losing humanity
- Architecture as ethics
Cultural Footprint: Gran Sasso represents Italy's artisanal counterpoint to luxury fashion—its influence extends beyond fashion pages into architecture and education. The factory itself is featured in Italian design journals as an exemplar of ethical industrial modernism.
5 | Top Picks & Fit — Italian Precision
For universal sizing guidance and how to measure yourself, see our Master Size Guide. Below are Gran Sasso's official size charts and fit notes.
The Golden Rules
- ✓ Gran Sasso uses European sizing—tends to run slightly smaller than UK high-street brands
- ✓ Knitwear should breathe—buy true to size for refinement, size up for comfort layering
- ✓ Natural fibers (cashmere, merino) have slight give but maintain structure
- ✓ Shoulder alignment follows natural stance, not mannequin form
- ✓ Seamless construction provides superior comfort and mobility
Gran Sasso Fit Philosophy
Gran Sasso pieces are designed around natural ergonomics and tactile pleasure—comfort as elegance.
Men's Fit:
- Slim but never restrictive
- Shoulder alignment follows natural stance
- Ribbing reinforces structure while retaining softness
- Generous armhole mobility
- Seamless construction where possible (linking technology)
Women's Fit:
- Tailored drape emphasizing shape without tightness
- Cashmere and silk blends provide fluid motion
- Lightweight knits ideal for layering over shirts or dresses
- Feminine without being constrictive
- Proportions designed for European body types
Size Conversion Chart
| Size | UK | IT | Fit Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 6–8 | 38–40 | Fitted silhouette |
| S | 8–10 | 40–42 | Classic fit |
| M | 10–12 | 42–44 | Slightly relaxed |
| L | 12–14 | 44–46 | Looser layering fit |
| XL | 14–16 | 46–48 | Generous, modern cut |
OD's Top Gran Sasso Picks
1. Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
Best For: The quintessential luxury essential; layering over shirts, solo wear, year-round versatility
Why OD's Rates It: Gran Sasso's cashmere sourced from Mongolian Hircus goats represents the pinnacle of natural fiber luxury. The hand-linking construction eliminates bulk at seams, creating exceptional comfort. This isn't fast-fashion cashmere—it's heirloom-quality that softens and improves with proper care over decades.
Key Construction: Fully fashioned knit, needle-by-needle linking, hand-finished details, 12-gauge knit density
Care Requirements: Hand-wash only in lukewarm water, dry flat, store folded with cedar sachets
2. Extra Fine Merino Polo
Best For: Smart-casual elegance, transitional seasons, business casual environments
Why OD's Rates It: Australian and New Zealand Extra Fine Merino provides breathability and resilience impossible with cotton. The knit structure regulates temperature naturally—cool in summer, insulating in autumn. Gran Sasso's mercerized cotton detailing adds subtle lustre at collar and placket.
Key Construction: Seamless body, reinforced collar structure, mother-of-pearl buttons, precise gauge consistency
Care Requirements: Hand-wash or gentle machine cycle (30°C), lay flat to dry
3. Summer Cashmere Cardigan
Best For: Lightweight layering, air-conditioned offices, cool summer evenings, year-round travel
Why OD's Rates It: Summer cashmere is Gran Sasso's technical innovation—the warmth and softness of cashmere in a gauge light enough for three-season wear. This cardigan transitions seamlessly from spring mornings to autumn evenings, providing versatile elegance.
Key Construction: Lightweight gauge, hand-finished buttonholes, ribbed cuffs and hem, seamless shoulders
Care Requirements: Hand-wash with wool-specific detergent, reshape while damp, dry flat away from heat
6 | Gran Sasso-Specific Care Notes
For universal care rules (washing temperature, detergent types, storage), see our Master Care Guide. Below are material-specific instructions unique to Gran Sasso's luxury natural fibers.
The Golden Rules for Gran Sasso
❌ NEVER:
- Machine wash cashmere (agitation damages delicate fibers permanently)
- Use hot water (causes shrinkage and fiber damage)
- Twist or wring (distorts knit structure)
- Tumble dry (heat destroys fiber integrity)
- Hang long-term (stretches shoulders)
- Store in plastic (traps moisture, promotes mildew)
✓ ALWAYS:
- Hand-wash in lukewarm water (max 30°C)
- Use neutral wool detergent or baby shampoo
- Dry flat on clean towel
- Store folded in breathable cotton bags
- Use cedar or lavender sachets (moth deterrent)
- Allow 24 hours rest between wears
Official Cashmere Care Protocol
Gran Sasso promotes garment care as part of ownership pride. Cashmere and Merino are living fibers—they thrive with the right attention.
Washing Protocol:
- Hand-wash only in lukewarm water (max 30°C) with neutral wool detergent or baby shampoo
- Soak no longer than five minutes—color stability depends on short immersion
- Massage gently, never twist or wring
- Rinse thoroughly and roll in a towel to remove excess water
- Dry flat, away from heat or sunlight
- Reshape while damp to original dimensions
Ironing (If Necessary):
- Low temperature setting only
- Garment turned inside out
- Use cotton cloth barrier or maintain five-centimeter distance
- Never iron directly on cashmere surface
Storage Protocol:
- Store clean garments only (oils and food attract moths)
- Fold, never hang (hanging stretches shoulders permanently)
- Use breathable cotton bags, avoid plastic
- Between seasons, add cedar or lavender sachets to deter moths
- Store in cool, dry location away from direct sunlight
Why this matters: Each wash renews the fiber's vitality. Cashmere softens with proper care, gaining patina rather than fatigue. Improper care (hot water, aggressive detergents, tumble drying) damages the delicate fiber structure and causes pilling, shrinkage, and loss of softness.
Pilling Management
Pilling is natural for cashmere—it's not a defect but a characteristic of short, soft fibers rubbing against surfaces.
Management protocol:
- Use a cashmere comb or electric fabric shaver (never pull pills by hand—damages base fibers)
- Gently stroke in one direction to remove pills
- After 3-4 wears, minimal new pilling should occur as loose fibers are removed
- High-quality Gran Sasso cashmere pills less than cheaper alternatives
Fiber-Specific Care Notes
Extra Fine Merino: More durable than cashmere, tolerates gentle machine washing (30°C delicate cycle) but hand-washing still preferred for longevity. Dry flat, store folded.
Silk Blends: Hand-wash only with silk-specific detergent. Never wring—roll in towel to remove water. Dry flat away from direct sunlight (UV degrades silk). Iron on low with pressing cloth if needed.
Cotton (Fresh Cotton, Suvin, Lisle): More wash-tolerant. Machine wash gentle cycle 30°C with liquid detergent. Reshape while damp, dry flat or hang. Iron while slightly damp for crisp finish.
Linen: Machine wash cold, air dry, iron while damp. Linen improves with washing—becomes softer and more lustrous over time.
Rotation and Recovery
Natural fibers need recovery time between wears:
- Avoid wearing the same piece multiple days consecutively
- Hang on padded hangers for a few hours between wears to release moisture
- Allow 24 hours minimum before refolding and storing
- Natural fibers "relax" and regain shape with rest
Professional Cleaning
When professional cleaning is necessary:
- Use specialists experienced with luxury knitwear
- Never use standard dry-cleaning (harsh chemicals damage natural fibers)
- Specify "hand-finished" service for Gran Sasso pieces
- Professional cleaning recommended once per season maximum
7 | Sustainability & Authenticity
Gran Sasso's Sustainability Program
Gran Sasso's sustainability program (detailed publicly since 2022) reveals a concrete ESG framework built on People, Planet, and Production Integrity.
Five Sustainability Pillars:
1. Environment
- Renewable energy through photovoltaic system expansion
- Waste reduction through yarn recovery and repair systems
- FSC-certified packaging
- Replacement of plastic air pillows with recycled paper alternatives
- Carbon footprint reduction through transportation optimization
- REACH-compliant material sourcing
2. People
- Employee feedback and innovation platforms encouraging continuous improvement
- Accademia d'eccellenza dell'artigianalità e del rimaglio (Craft and Linking Excellence Academy)—internal training preserving endangered techniques
- Gran Sasso Quality School—educational partnership with regional technical institutes
- Near-100% employment rate among course graduates
- Fair wages and ethical working conditions
3. Product
- Longevity-focused design (garments designed for decades, not seasons)
- Quality construction ensuring repairability
- Responsible sourcing of natural fibers
- Traceability throughout supply chain
4. Community
- Local employment sustaining regional economy
- Cultural preservation through craft education
- Collaboration with small Italian artisan workshops
- Support for Italy's manufacturing ecosystem
5. Brand
- Ethical communication and transparency
- Publicly documented sustainability commitments
- Independent verification mechanisms
- Long-term vision over short-term profit
The Craft Preservation Academy
The linking course ("rimaglio") is one of the most important manufacturing phases in knitwear—connecting garment parts needle by needle. This artisanal skill was disappearing from Abruzzo; Gran Sasso's academy has revitalized it.
Course Structure:
- 3-month intensive training programs
- Two donated linking machines for hands-on practice
- Expert artisan instructors with decades of experience
- Integration with school-work alternation projects
Results:
- Continuous employment for graduates within Gran Sasso
- Preservation of endangered craft techniques
- Regional economic revitalization through skilled employment
Governance & Transparency
- Adherence to Italian corporate governance frameworks ensuring legal compliance and ethical operations
- Independent oversight mechanisms
- Confidential whistleblowing platforms ensuring accountability
- Published sustainability commitments and measurable progress tracking
Gran Sasso's ESG model fuses digital innovation with human continuity—a template for ethical "slow luxury."
OD's Authenticity Guarantee
- ✓ OD's is an authorized UK Gran Sasso retailer
- ✓ 100% authentic Made in Italy provenance—direct sourcing from Gran Sasso's Italian production network
- ✓ Every piece crafted entirely in Italy (Sant'Egidio alla Vibrata and Roseto degli Abruzzi facilities)
- ✓ Full manufacturer warranty coverage
- ✓ This does not affect your statutory rights under UK consumer law
8 | FAQs — Gran Sasso-Specific Intelligence
For universal sizing, care, and store policy FAQs, see our Master FAQ Guide. Below are brand-specific questions about Gran Sasso.
Where are Gran Sasso garments made?
Every stage—from yarn spinning to packaging—is executed in Italy, primarily at the Sant'Egidio alla Vibrata headquarters and Roseto degli Abruzzi cotton weaving plant. Gran Sasso owns its production facilities and trains its artisans through dedicated academies.
Is Gran Sasso sustainable?
Yes. The brand's sustainability comes from local production (reducing transportation emissions), longevity-focused design (garments built for decades), continuous innovation in waste reduction, and measurable ESG actions. All commitments are publicly documented.
What makes Gran Sasso different from other Italian knitwear brands?
Where others outsource, Gran Sasso integrates: it owns its production facilities, trains its artisans through dedicated academies, and designs its architecture around people rather than just profit. Complete vertical integration from spinning to finishing ensures quality control impossible with outsourced production.
Can I machine-wash Gran Sasso knitwear?
Hand-wash is always preferred for cashmere and fine merino. Machine cycles risk damaging the knit density and finish even on delicate settings. Cotton pieces may tolerate gentle machine washing (30°C, delicate cycle) but hand-washing extends lifespan significantly.
Why does Gran Sasso knitwear cost more than high-street brands?
Every Gran Sasso piece involves:
- Premium natural fibers from certified sources (Mongolian cashmere, Australian merino)
- Italian labor at fair wages
- Hand-finishing and linking (needle-by-needle construction)
- Zero outsourcing to low-cost countries
- Decades of artisanal expertise embedded in each garment
- Longevity—one Gran Sasso sweater outlasts multiple fast-fashion pieces
How should I store Gran Sasso knitwear between seasons?
Clean thoroughly (moths are attracted to oils and food residue), fold (never hang long-term—stretches shoulders), store in breathable cotton bags with cedar or lavender sachets, in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Never use plastic bags—they trap moisture and promote mildew.
Does pilling mean my Gran Sasso cashmere is defective?
No. Pilling is natural for cashmere—it's not a defect but a characteristic of short, soft fibers. High-quality Gran Sasso cashmere pills less than cheaper alternatives, and pilling diminishes significantly after the first few wears as loose fibers are removed. Use a cashmere comb or electric fabric shaver to manage pills gently.
Can Gran Sasso pieces be repaired?
Yes. The linking construction and hand-finishing techniques make Gran Sasso garments highly repairable. For major repairs, contact OD's for guidance on connecting with specialists experienced in luxury knitwear repair.
9 | Why OD's × Gran Sasso — Italian Craft with Integrity
OD's collaborates with Gran Sasso because it embodies everything true luxury should mean today: authenticity, responsibility, and enduring style.
What Sets OD's Apart:
✓ 100% Authentic Made in Italy Provenance — Direct sourcing from Gran Sasso's Italian production network ensures authenticity and full manufacturer warranty backing.
✓ Fiber & Construction Expertise — Our team understands yarn types, construction methods, and proper maintenance. We can explain the difference between Summer Cashmere and standard cashmere, why linking matters, and how to identify quality construction.
✓ Cross-Season Curation — From winter cashmere to summer linen, we select pieces for year-round elegance. We understand which weights work for British climate and how to build versatile wardrobes around Gran Sasso foundations.
✓ Care Knowledge — We provide detailed guidance on maintaining natural fibers:
- Proper hand-washing techniques for cashmere and merino
- Pilling management without damaging base fibers
- Storage protocols preventing moth damage
- When to seek professional cleaning vs. home care
✓ Fit Consultation — Gran Sasso uses European sizing with refined cuts. We guide customers on:
- True-to-size vs. sizing up for layering
- Body type considerations (shoulder width, torso length)
- Which weights work for different seasons
- Building coordinated wardrobes
✓ Authorized Retailer Guarantee — Full manufacturer warranty coverage, authentic product verification, access to brand support for any concerns.
What Gran Sasso Represents at OD's
Gran Sasso isn't seasonal fashion. It's a philosophy—quality that never expires.
In an industry dominated by disposable trends and outsourced production, Gran Sasso stands as proof that Italian craftsmanship can thrive in the modern era without compromise.
Each piece we curate tells a story:
- The Mongolian herders who raise Hircus goats for cashmere
- The Australian sheep farmers producing Extra Fine Merino
- The Italian artisans linking sweaters needle by needle
- The third-generation Di Stefano family preserving 70+ years of expertise
- The students at Gran Sasso Quality School learning endangered craft techniques
At OD's, we connect customers to that philosophy through education, trust, and genuine expertise.
Both Gran Sasso and OD's reject the disposable cycles of fast fashion. Both invest in materials, construction, and customer service that extend product lifespan. Both serve customers who understand that value isn't about lowest price—it's about cost per wear over years.
Visit OD's Designer Clothing
44 Barrow Street, St Helens
Open: Mon-Sat 9-5.30pm
Email: info@odsdesignerclothing.co.uk
Internal Links:
Status: Platinum Canonical Master
Editorial Integrity & Attribution
Sources: Gran Sasso Official Website; Gran Sasso Sustainability Program (2022–2025); Gran Sasso Academy Documentation; Italian Triennale Archive (Medaglia d’Oro 2009); Domus Architecture Journal “Transparent Geometries” (Sept 2017).
All construction details, fiber origins, and care protocols verified from official Gran Sasso documentation. Architectural recognition confirmed via Milan Triennale archives. Sustainability and training initiatives validated through the Gran Sasso Academy and published ESG disclosures.
Verification: Chris O’Dea — 15 October 2025
Next Review: April 2026 (6-Month Cycle)
Schema Tags: Article • FAQPage • Product (Italian Luxury Knitwear)
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