LA MAISON, A CENTURY OF INNOVATION
Léon Fogal, the son of a sock maker, established the brand over a century ago to enhance the beauty of Swiss women by offering the first stockings made of natural fibers.
Innovation is at the heart of FOGAL, which brought “nylons” to Switzerland in the 1940s, led the worldwide craze for colorful tights in the 60s, and, in the 70s, a first for a fashion brand, established collaborations.
1921
Léon Fogal launches the FOGAL brand in Zurich, Switzerland.
Following in the footsteps of his father, a sockknitter,
Leon is inspired to create his own legacy with an
eponymous brand of legwear.
Mr. Fogal innovates the first ever stockings made of all natural fibers which immediately become very popular with women in search of legwear that is fashionable, comfortable, and durable.
1923
The first Fogal boutique opens on Limmatquai in Zurich.
1925
FOGAL becomes the firstbrand to introduce an in-store repair service using a special machine for darning silk and nylon stockings. Women are now able to extent the life of their legwear with this first-of-its-kind innovative solution.
1939
Léon Fogal imports the first nylon stockings to Europe, triggering a surge in sales and popularity for the brand.
1950
FOGAL innovates seamless stockings, renowned for their smooth and impeccable look. The knitting process creates a single piece of fabric, rather than multiple pieces sewn together, resulting in an all-over sheer and elegant look.
1960
FOGAL's anticipation of women's desires continues with the innovation of tights. Bold colors and patterns became a hallmark of FOGAL that continue to this day.
1968
After the death of Léon Fogal, ownership transfers to the Zurich banking family of Walter Meier. Starting with six Swiss shops, FOGAL expands internationally with shops in premiere shopping destinations around the world including New York and San Francisco.
1970
FOGAL innovates the first knee-highs and gains widespread media attention for its signature bold looks. In 1971, ahead of other brands, FOGAL focuses on natural, sustainable materials and innovates the first cashmere and silk tights.
1974
FOGAL collaborates with artist Allen Jones to paint facades on the Basel and Zurich train stations, forging a unique creative synergy between a brand and artist. This led to long-standing collaborations with international artists
1982
The first international store opens in New York, followed by Paris, London and Tokyo. Collaborations with renowned artists and product innovations elevate FOGAL to become one of the favorite cult brands of the 1980s.
1985
The emerging designer, Lilo Nido, unveils an innovative line of seamless tights featuring no central seam and a lace-lined thong panty - a complex and challenging achievement in innovation for FOGAL.
1992
Shopping bags as status symbols. Famous artists remain eager to work with FOGAL and the shopping bags became popular collector's items. Shopper designed by the artist Jean Robert.
2000
Bodywear is introduced with an innovative ‘’second skin’’ concept. This revolutionary design and fabric technology mimics the feel and fit of a "second skin" and opens the brand to new clients.
2013
FOGAL creates an exclusive hosiery collection for "The Great Gatsby" motion picture. Featuring ballroom socks and Charleston tights, these customized pieces embody the glamour of the roaring twenties. Blending legendaryexpertise with contemporary fashion, these creations also sparking a buying frenzy and attracted new fans to the brand.
2018
FOGAL is conscientious and responsive to the evolving values of society. The new FOGAL tights are crafted from sustainable fibers including ramie, kapok, hemp, banana, citrus bark, and bamboo.
2023
The ChimHaeres Group acquires a majority ownership of FOGAL signaling a renewed commitment to build upon the legacy of the legendary brand.