Meet Raphael, our Eugster & Huber Designer
At Eugster & Huber, textiles are defined by precision, restraint, and a deep respect for craftsmanship. Behind each collection lies a careful balance between Swiss heritage qualities and contemporary innovation—an approach embodied by our designer, Raphael Sommer. In this interview, Raphael shares his design philosophy, the inspiration behind the Spring/Summer 2027 collection, and his commitment to preserving textile craftsmanship while shaping fabrics for today and tomorrow.
Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your journey as a textile designer?
My name is Raphael Sommer. I have been working in textiles for many years. Joining Eugster & Huber gave me the opportunity to return fully to the textile world and to actively develop and move the collection forward.
How has your role evolved since joining the company?
At the beginning, my focus was on understanding and structuring what already existed: identifying which qualities could be further developed, which needed to be revived, and which new elements—such as certified cottons or GOTS qualities—had become essential due to current environmental and market expectations.
How do you ensure that each collection balances heritage and modernity?
Heritage comes from my experience in the Swiss textile industry and from knowing which core qualities belong in such a collection. Modernity comes through evolving finishes and new techniques. The balance lies in combining proven fabrics with contemporary treatments and ideas.
What are the applications of Eugster & Huber, for which type of clothing?
Fabrics from Eugster & Huber are designed for garments that are useful both in everyday life and on special occasions. Comfort, skin feel, and haptic quality are essential. The fabrics are meant to elevate clothing beyond mass-produced items while remaining wearable and practical. The Eugster & Huber customer is looking for a product that distinguishes them. It is not necessarily gender-specific. They seek comfort, confidence, and authenticity—something that justifies their investment and makes them feel good wearing it.
What was the inspiration behind the Spring/Summer 2027 collection?
The inspiration came from combining normal, everyday, visually simple elements with new finishing techniques. The idea was to explore different aspects of the finished fabric while keeping the overall look understated. I am drawn to fabrics that hold a kind of secret—those that appear normal at first glance but reveal a completely different world through touch, movement, and drape. The tactile experience is just as important as the visual one.
Can you tell us about the key fabrics in the collection and what makes them special?
Guipure lace is closely linked to regional tradition and rare craftsmanship that is slowly disappearing. Batiste, cambric, and popeline are true Swiss heritage qualities. Voile also plays an important role, alongside woven specialties like piqué or plissé—fabrics that not everyone can still produce today.
What role does craftsmanship play in your creative process?
Craftsmanship is something I actively try to preserve. It may seem old-fashioned, but traditional know-how in Europe is disappearing. What still exists should be protected, otherwise we risk losing the knowledge of how things are made.
How do you balance technical innovation and tactile beauty without compromising elegance?
Textile beauty today often comes through innovation—such as transforming a simple voile into a washable organza that maintains its appearance after washing. Innovation must always serve the fabric’s elegance, not overpower it.
How does Eugster & Huber integrate sustainability and ethical production in SS27?
Sustainability is addressed through certified materials, environmentally friendly finishing processes, and the continuous development of responsible treatments, such as resin finishes that enhance performance while respecting environmental standards.
If you had to describe SS27 in one word, what would it be?
Haptic.
Since 1860, Eugster & Huber, sister company of ALUMO, has meticulously curated an enchanting selection of premier Swiss Classics, exquisitely crafted predominantly from the finest cotton. Eugster & Huber specializes in sumptuous pleated textiles for evening shirts and blouses, while also excelling in timeless voiles and batiste, both plain and embroidered, as well as richly detailed jacquards and ethereal organdies.
