Belstaff

Belstaff was founded in 1924 in Stoke-on-Trent, creating the first ever waterproof and breathable fabric, a waxed cotton which the company specialised in using to produce all weather motorbike and aviator jackets. The jacket became a legendary fashion icon with patrons such as thirties motorcross legend Sammy Miller, the revolutionary Che Guevara, the desert legend Laurence of Arabia and film idols Steve McQueen and more recently Will Smith.

During the textile crisis in the 90’s, the factory in Stoke-on-Trent closed down and after a brief move to Wellingborough, it seemed that Belstaff was doomed. Thankfully, Italian motorcycle enthusiast Franco Malenotti stepped in to save the business and promptly moved the operation to Italy, where it remains today in a factory near Venice. With an injection of Italian style, the brand has exploited its British heritage with retro designs such as the classic Trialmaster and Black Prince, always sporting the Union Jack on its labels.

A fervent favourite in the Italian market, stylish Italians covet the brand for winter wear. Belstaff is always in demand at Young Ideas with a dynamic range of jackets, boots, handbags, belts and other accessories.