A Fabric Note · Vitale Barberis Canonico
VBC 21 Micron Covert: the fabric that commands the room
Rustic character. Commanding drape. Built to last.
- By Royal Blue · Authorized VBC distributor
- Updated Oct 2026
21 micron
- Robust wool
440g
- Commanding drape
Steep twill
- Visible ribbing
Mouliné yarn
- Marled depth
Before it became a tailoring classic, covert was a working fabric — made for hunting and military dress. Its name is thought to come from the French couvert, referring to dense woodland. It had to be exceptionally strong and naturally camouflaging, able to withstand thorns, rough terrain, and everything picked up along the way. Vitale Barberis Canonico weaves that heritage into a fabric made for the modern gentleman.
Rustic character
Its distinctive marled appearance — the work of mouliné or fancy yarns — gives covert remarkable depth and rustic character. It catches the light beautifully, revealing subtle tonal variation whether indoors or out, and it photographs beautifully for the same reason.
Commanding drape
At 440g, covert drapes with authority, creating a confident silhouette. Designed for those who appreciate structure, substance and timeless tailoring.
Built to last
Recognisable by its clearly visible ribbing and steep diagonals, covert is a dense, compact fabric — very strong, completely crease resistant and exceptionally durable. Low maintenance by nature, it is crafted to be worn season after season.
The colourways
The uses
Suits, trousers and jackets; light overcoats and military jackets — country toughness, tailored for the gentleman.