Orbace

Traditional fabric made from thick coarse wool. Dense, compact, and very heavy, this material is originally from Sardinia and until recently was still made by the women of the island from the wool of their flocks. Spun and dyed with vegetable colors, usually black, but also red, the fabric was used for women’s and men’s local traditional costumes. The term “orbace” (Sardinian dialect for the old Italian word albagio, which comes from the Arabic al baz) is seen as a reminder of the Fascist era, as it was used to make the uniforms of high-ranking members of the regime, thus enjoying its “moment of fame.” Orbace reappeared in the 1970s, used in a lighter version for the modish evening capes and coats that took the place of furs. At the end of the 1970s it was used again for men’s outdoor wear.