Staron was a silk manufacturer in Saint Etienne, France. It was started in 1867 by Pierre Staron, and started producing ribbons and trim. In the 1920s, Staron produced a specialty jersey for Elsa Schiaparelli called Jerserelli. Pierre Staron’s son, Henri, used ribbon manufacturing techniques to make beautiful silk fabrics. Staron became a favorite of major couture houses including Dior, Balmain, and Balenciaga. In 1956, Staron started to produce Alaskine. It was formally trademarked in 1960. Alaskine is a blend of (35%) silk and (65%) worsted wool. It keeps it’s form and reflects light so elegantly. Dior used Alaskin for it’s first trapeze dress, and the fabric became a staple for evening wear in the 1960s.