The history of C.P. Company: from Chester Perry to the Goggle Jacket, 50 years of useful innovation
Introduction — Why C.P. Company still matters today
C.P. Company built its legend by making tech wearable every day: experimental fabrics, garment-dyed pieces with deep shades, and functional details that never feel gimmicky. Understanding its history helps you make better choices when picking jackets, hoodies, and parkas... and helps you recognize the real references when shopping.
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1971–1978: Chester Perry, Massimo Osti’s idea laboratory
In the early 70s, Bolognese graphic designer Massimo Osti launched Chester Perry: initially printed t-shirts, then a full line where he tested unique cuts and textile treatments. In 1978, following a trademark dispute, the brand became C.P. Company. The tone was set: the same spirit of experimentation, a cleaner name, and international ambition.
The DNA: garment-dyeing, milspec & reinterpreted workwear
Osti’s founding idea was simple: dye the garment after it has been sewn (garment-dyeing). The result: deeper colors, sometimes slightly irregular (the charm of the piece), and a unique hand-feel. C.P. Company blends this chromatic touch with military and workwear references (utility pockets, protective hoods, tight weaves) to create an immediately recognizable urban uniform.
What it means for you (purchasing)
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The colors "live" better (khaki, navy, graphite).
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The material has character (piqué, reps, light membranes).
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The finish ages well if cared for properly.
1988: Mille Miglia & the birth of the Goggle Jacket
In 1988, the collaboration with the Mille Miglia car race gave birth to the Goggle Jacket: two integrated lenses in the hood (for protection/vision) and, depending on the version, a sleeve lens to check one's watch without taking hands off the wheel. This piece became the brand's icon and has been reissued, modernized, and adapted (winter/mid-season) over the years.
Why it’s a cult item
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Design functional before aesthetic.
· Capsules/archives
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Technical jackets: 30°C, mild detergent, no fabric softener, air dry; reactivate the DWR (water repellency) on low heat if necessary.
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Sweats/tees: 30°C, inside out, gentle spin, dry flat to prevent stretching.
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Garment-dye: more vibrant colors → wash with similar colors.
Product signatures to know
A) Goggle Jacket / Mille Miglia
The statement piece: hood with lenses, sometimes a sleeve lens. Ideal if you want the brand's icon.
B) Lens Sleeve (sweatshirts & jackets)
The porthole on the left sleeve has become a code: discreet, practical, immediately C.P.
C) Metropolis / Urban Protection
More architectural lines (pockets, high collar, elaborate hoods), perfect for a structured urban wardrobe.
Links:
How to choose your C.P. Company piece (practical guide)
| Need | Model / Fabric | Cut & size | Reliable colors | Internal link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wind + light rain | Reps / light membrane | TTS; hoodie underneath = +1 | Navy, Black, Olive | Technical jackets |
| Brand icon | Goggle / Mille Miglia | Regular; between sizes = +1 | Olive, Graphite | Goggle Jacket |
| Everyday casual | Lens Sleeve hoodie | TTS; oversize = +1 | Black, Grey, Navy | Sweatshirts & hoodies |
| Clean office | Soft shell clean | TTS | Navy, Black | Soft shells |
Sizing tip: test shoulder movement (cross your arms), 1–2 fingers of ease at the chest, length depends on use (short = mobility / longer = protection).
Quick care (to make it last)
FAQ — C.P. Company history & landmarks
Where is C.P. Company from?
From Bologna, founded by Massimo Osti in 1971 (under the name Chester Perry, then C.P. Company in 1978).
What is garment-dye?
A post-construction dyeing process that gives the garment a richer color and a unique handfeel.
Why is the Goggle Jacket iconic?
Born from the Mille Miglia race (1988), it blends function and style: integrated lenses, practical silhouette, strong signature.
What is the Lens Sleeve?
The lens on the left sleeve, a discreet detail that became a visual code for the brand on sweatshirts and jackets.
How does C.P. Company fit?
Generally TTS/Regular for jackets; if you wear a hoodie ➜ +1. For sweatshirts, TTS; for oversize ➜ +1.
