The History of the Marcel Establishments
From Knitwear to Fashion Icon
The Marcel establishments are primarily a beautiful family story, filled with audacity and creativity. It all began with Marcel Eizenberg, born on February 1, 1920, in Warsaw. This visionary entrepreneur made a mark in the textile industry in France by launching an essential garment: the famous "Marcel" tank top. Let's revisit this adventure that has passed through generations with brilliance and enthusiasm!
From Warsaw to Roanne: The First Steps
After the upheavals of World War II, Marcel Eizenberg reunites with his father in Roanne, a dynamic textile city where the spirit of enterprise is in the air. In 1946, he marries Liba Skorska, and together, they embark on a promising adventure. They open a small workshop on Chassain de la Plasse street, where they make hats and underwear. This is a time of reconstruction after the war, and France is lacking everything, including clothing!
It is here that a brilliant idea sprouts in the minds of Marcel and Liba: why not create a practical "body shirt," sleeveless, made of soft and durable cotton? This simple and functional product immediately finds its audience!
1949: The Birth of the Marcel
On May 1, 1949, the Marcel establishments officially see the light of day. Their flagship product, this simple tank top, becomes a sensation. Knitted in Richelieu stitch, with its tightly ribbed edges and soft texture, it is offered in two colors: white and navy blue.
The success quickly spreads beyond the borders of Roanne. In Paris, wholesalers in the Sentier district, a true hub of textiles, become excited about this innovative underwear and decide to name it after its creator: the "Marcel" is born!
The Marcel Conquers the World
The Marcel does not just make waves in France. In the United States, the tank top becomes a style icon after being worn by Marlon Brando in the cult film *A Streetcar Named Desire*. In France, actors like Yves Montand and Charles Vanel contribute to its aura by proudly wearing it in *The Wages of Fear*.
Business flourishes for the Marcel establishments, which move to a larger factory on chemin d’Oudan in Roanne. With a sense of innovation always at the forefront, the company specializes in producing quality underwear, appealing to an ever-expanding audience.
The "Marcel" Enters the Dictionary
In the 1980s, a new milestone is reached. The word "Marcel" enters the French dictionary, now designating this tank top that has made its creator famous. It is a symbol of recognition for this simple yet timeless garment, embraced by men all over the world.
A New Beginning
Although the Marcel establishments closed their doors in 1997, the adventure does not end there! In 2019, Thomas Sardi, an entrepreneur passionate about textile history and local traditions, decides to relaunch the Marcel establishments. He revives the legendary Marcel tank top, upholding the same values of quality and artisanal know-how while adding a touch of modernity.
Today, the Marcel establishments not only produce the famous tank top but also an elegant collection of merino wool sweaters and body shirts, all made locally in Roanne.
The Marcel establishments are much more than just a clothing brand. They embody the spirit of an era, the ingenuity of a couple, and the desire to reinvent a simple garment to make it a timeless icon. Even today, the Marcel remains a symbol of style and comfort, proudly worn by entire generations. With the relaunch of the brand, the story of Marcel Eizenberg continues to be written, blending tradition and modernity to offer everyone a piece of history to wear every day.
And what if, in the end, the Marcel was not just a tank top, but a true declaration of fashion and life?
