Textile traditions in Cholet and the surrounding region

A fertile land

The damp clay soils are conducive to flax and hemp farming and this has contributed to the growth of Cholet’s textile industry.

As the story goes

The textile workers have left an indelible mark on the history of Cholet. Exploring the town’s narrow streets, you can still see some of the characteristic houses of their era.
To better understand their lives and working conditions, and the stages of production, visit the Textile and Fashion Museum. It occupies an old laundry house where it unveils the secrets of centuries of tradition.

The handkerchief, a symbol

Originally made in several different colours, Cholet handkerchiefs became red and white at the beginning of the 19th century and have stayed that way ever since. When singer Théodore Botrel sang “Le Mouchoir Rouge de Cholet” (The Red Handkerchief of Cholet), he elevated it to the status of local emblem.
In fact, Cholet became known as the “handkerchief capital”. A history full of highlights you’ll want to discover.

Footwear, a new catalyst

Following the decline of the rural weaving factories, the slipper industry started to develop, followed by the footwear sector. Some manufacturers are still operating in the Mauges area.
The Footwear Trades Museum displays over 1,000 pairs of shoes and explains how they are made, from the shoemakers’ and clogmakers’ workshops to the industrial factories.