Somewhere on the outskirts of Bologna, deep within a network of temperature-controlled warehouses, lies one of Europe’s largest fashion archives. There, 80,000 pieces of vintage Vans, Woolrich, Barbour, Baracuta, and Gianfranco Ferré are hung like old church bells waiting to be tolled – countless samples pilfered from flea markets, vintage stores, and trade fairs.

Given that WP Lavori in Corso has built and distributed these iconic heritage brands since 1982, the bounty was born from 40 years’ worth of research and development, and will soon be opened to the public. Founded by Giuseppe and Cristina Calori, the concept of WP Lavori in Corso was quite revolutionary in the 80s, introducing Europeans to a megamix of foreign brands for the first time ever. Dovetailing with youth culture’s newfound allegiance to UK and US labels, they were a pioneering force in the globalisation of design.

The name is the central proposition – Lavori in Corso translates to Works in Progress – so this archive is testament to four decades worth of exploration and innovation. To mark its big 4-0, fashion critic and content creator Samuel Trotman (AKA @samutaro) has travelled over the company’s vaults and showcased its most elemental pieces – among them classic items like Beaufort Barbour, the Blundstone Boot, and Baracuta’s G9 harrington jackets. Not to mention a vintage jacket from Filson, a brand which has recently been introduced into the licencing and distribution of WP Lavori in Corso, staying true to that “Works in Progress” mantra.

From workwear, to tailoring, to skate gear, and militaria, all of these pieces chime with the company’s obsession with undiscovered brands, those brimming with tradition and untapped cachet. To futher celebrate its birthday, WP will be opening its archive to anyone and everyone who can be bothered to make an appointment, otherwise it will be selling a slew of vintage items in store alongside graphic t-shirts emblazoned with its most memorable moments. Watch the video below to learn more about 40 years of works in progress.