Fashion

Marni's New Direction Under Meryll Rogge

Marni, under the fresh guidance of creative director Meryll Rogge, has embarked on a fascinating journey back to its foundational principles, blending the brand's minimalist beginnings with a bold, contemporary vision. Rogge's inaugural collection serves as a testament to Marni's enduring spirit of individuality and artistic expression, offering an invigorating alternative to the prevailing trends in the fashion landscape. This new chapter not only honors the legacy of Marni's founder, Consuelo Castiglioni, but also propels the brand into an exciting future defined by wit, eccentricity, and a profound appreciation for culture beyond mere clothing.

Rogge's designs resonate with a distinct energy, appealing to those who embrace unconventional style and curate their wardrobes with a discerning eye. Her work at Marni underscores a commitment to crafting garments that celebrate self-expression and fearless elegance, challenging the industry's focus on basic staples. By reinterpreting Marni's historical elements through her unique lens, Rogge ensures the brand continues to be a haven for individuals who see fashion as an extension of their artistic and cultural identities.

Marni's Evolution: From Minimalism to Eclectic Maximalism

Marni, initially conceived in 1994, began with a minimalist ethos, characterized by clean lines and a restricted color palette of neutrals. This foundational phase, unearthed by Meryll Rogge from an archival hard drive, stands in stark contrast to the maximalist aesthetic—vibrant prints, voluminous forms, and abstract patterns—that later defined the brand under Consuelo Castiglioni and subsequent creative director Francesco Risso. Risso, who led Marni from 2016 to 2025, further pushed creative boundaries, transforming everyday materials into avant-garde, sculptural runway pieces. Rogge’s current direction seeks to reconcile these two poles, bridging Marni's origins with its later, more flamboyant identity, and charting a new course that respects both its past and future.

The brand, founded by Consuelo Castiglioni, gradually gained acclaim for its unique graphic patterns, distinctly glamorous silhouettes, and vivid color schemes that became its signature. Francesco Risso, during his tenure, elevated Marni's creative expression, introducing fantastical runway ensembles that ingeniously repurposed found objects and unusual fabrics into wearable art. Rogge’s recent show in Milan signals a return to Castiglioni’s initial concepts regarding Marni’s identity and purpose, yet reimagined through her contemporary perspective. Her collection presented an intriguing synthesis, commencing with a look that nodded to the brand's earlier, more understated period, albeit executed with Rogge’s distinctive flair—a plush white goat leather coat, a brown t-shirt featuring a subtle logo and unique cut-outs, and a black skirt adorned with large paillette sequins. A vibrant red belt served as the sole splash of color, meticulously designed to echo Castiglioni’s very first print: a delicate red poppy motif.

Meryll Rogge's Vision: Redefining Marni's Independent Spirit

Meryll Rogge's debut collection for Marni in Milan presented a fresh, rebellious aesthetic that felt distinct and modern. Her designs cater to individuals who confidently pair unconventional pieces, such as quirky sweaters with witchy lace-up kitten heels and slouchy colored socks, embodying a sense of swagger and a curatorial eye for unique style. Rogge, who continues to produce her own eponymous collection and has a background working with designers like Marc Jacobs and Dries Van Noten, brings a vision infused with wit and idiosyncratic elements. Her Marni collection showcased sporty, eccentric, and textured garments, from a butter yellow windbreaker dress with drawstring pockets to a fisherman-style knit vest layered over a plaid shirt with bloomers, and a green leather pencil skirt fastened with a silver clasp, paired with a lavender top featuring visible "industrial stitching."

In a fashion landscape often dominated by "wardrobe staples," AI-generated outfit ideas, and luxury basics, Rogge's Marni collection offers a vibrant and energetic alternative. As Rogge herself noted backstage, "The Marni spirit is very particular. It is an independent character. There is a bold elegance, a sense of self. It is for people interested in the arts and culture—it's broader than just fashion." This philosophy underscores Marni's consistent core identity over the past three decades, regardless of who has been at the creative helm. Rogge’s collection masterfully channeled this spirit, infusing her own blend of sportiness, eccentricity, and tactile richness into the brand’s distinct DNA. Her ability to synthesize Marni’s heritage with her modern, playful approach ensures that the brand remains relevant and captivating for those who seek fashion as a means of artistic and personal expression, challenging conventional norms and celebrating individuality in every stitc

Sa Su Phi: Redefining Women's Fashion with Comfort and Power

Sa Su Phi, a Milanese fashion house led by two visionary women, is making waves in the industry by redefining what it means for clothing to be both empowering and comfortable. Their latest collection, "The Architecture of Femininity," presented during Milan Fashion Week, emphasized the seamless integration of strength and fluidity. This brand, co-founded by Sara Ferrero and Susanna Cucco, addresses the long-standing dilemma faced by women in choosing between style and ease, offering a sophisticated solution that resonates with a global audience and has garnered significant celebrity attention.

The brand's philosophy is deeply rooted in practicality and luxurious tactility, starting with high-quality materials like cashmere and silk. Their designs aim to support women throughout their busy days, from professional settings to evening engagements, without compromising on elegance. Sa Su Phi's rapid expansion and embrace by influential figures underscore its success in meeting the demands of contemporary women's lifestyles, establishing itself as a key player in the luxury fashion market.

Sa Su Phi's Vision: Blending Power with Comfort

Sa Su Phi, a Milan-based fashion label, was born from the desire to resolve the common fashion dilemma faced by women: choosing between clothing that exudes power and garments that offer ultimate comfort. Founders Sara Ferrero and Susanna Cucco, both seasoned professionals in their fifties, launched the brand in 2021 with this core principle, aiming to create a wardrobe that seamlessly integrates both aspects. Their recent show at Milan's Fondazione Giangiacomo Feltrinelli highlighted this philosophy through their collection, 'The Architecture of Femininity,' which showcased designs that are both protective and fluid, challenging conventional notions of women's wear.

The brand's design ethos is reflected in pieces like armor-inspired tabards crafted from super-soft cashmere and skirts featuring protective hip padding, all designed to enhance the body's natural beauty while providing comfort. Ferrero emphasizes that the sensation of luxurious fabrics such as cashmere and silk against the skin is paramount, coupled with essential practicality. For instance, all jackets incorporate elastane, ensuring sleeves stay in place—a small detail that speaks volumes about their understanding of an active woman's needs. This blend of elegance, comfort, and functionality has propelled Sa Su Phi to a substantial business with a hundred stockists worldwide and a loyal following among celebrities like Elle Fanning, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Meryl Streep, further cementing its unique position in the fashion landscape.

The Dynamic Duo Behind the Brand's Success

The innovative spirit of Sa Su Phi is deeply rooted in the diverse professional backgrounds of its co-founders, Sara Ferrero and Susanna Cucco. Ferrero, whose career trajectory began in investment banking in London during the 90s, transitioned into leadership roles as CEO for notable brands like Furla, Joseph, and Valextra before co-founding Sa Su Phi. Her journey reflects a profound understanding of business dynamics and luxury market demands. Cucco, on the other hand, brings a wealth of creative expertise through her art direction agency, Cucco Studio, having collaborated with prestigious fashion houses such as Prada, Max Mara, and Loro Piana. Their combined experiences in both corporate strategy and creative direction form a formidable foundation for Sa Su Phi, enabling them to merge practical design with artistic vision.

Meeting through their professional networks, Ferrero and Cucco realized a shared vision for creating versatile fashion that caters to the modern working woman, seamlessly transitioning from day to night. This commitment was dramatically illustrated at their show, where a grand curtain was drawn back to flood the room with sunlight, symbolizing clothing designed for every moment of the day. While often described as 'quiet luxury,' their recent collection introduced more maximalist elements, including liquid-gold gowns and plum knits paired with blue silk suits, showcasing a fearless approach to style. Ferrero asserts that their design choices are driven by attitude and the authentic desires of their clientele, focusing on how women want to feel rather than adhering strictly to minimalist or maximalist trends, thereby crafting a brand that genuinely empowers and inspires.

See More

Key Fashion Trends from London Fashion Week

London Fashion Week delivered an exhilarating display of sartorial innovation, blending the traditional with the avant-garde. The event was marked by the presence of significant figures and emerging talents alike, all contributing to a vibrant showcase of future fashion directions. From the celebration of British heritage to the redefinition of evening attire, and the integration of sportswear into high fashion, the week provided a comprehensive look at the styles set to influence upcoming seasons. Accessories took center stage with intricate brooches and embellishments, while bridal wear received a fresh, contemporary update.

This season's London Fashion Week underscored a dynamic shift in design philosophy, prioritizing both established aesthetic traditions and pioneering creative expressions. The runways were alive with collections that effortlessly combined historical nods with modern interpretations, offering a compelling vision for future wardrobes. New leadership at the British Fashion Council emphasized supporting design talent, ensuring a flourishing ecosystem for British fashion. This commitment was evident in the diverse range of styles presented, from subtly refined pieces to boldly transformative ensembles.

Embracing British Design Heritage and Modern Evening Attire

London Fashion Week celebrated its unique British identity through designs that honored national heritage, alongside an innovative approach to evening wear. Designers like Erdem and Chopova Lowena integrated classic British elements, such as argyle patterns and barn jackets, into their collections, giving these traditional styles a contemporary edge. These pieces, suitable for both integrated ensembles and individual statements, offered wearers a chance to subtly incorporate a sense of British flair into their wardrobes. The reimagining of classic silhouettes with luxurious materials marked a significant trend, pushing the boundaries of what is considered appropriate for formal occasions.

The emphasis on British heritage was particularly strong, with designers showcasing pieces that resonated with the country's rich fashion history. From the practical elegance of barn jackets to the playful sophistication of argyle socks, these designs offered a fresh perspective on timeless British aesthetics. Simultaneously, evening wear underwent a notable transformation, moving towards unexpected silhouettes crafted from opulent materials. Highlights included shearling polo t-shirts and leather shorts, suggesting a versatile approach to formal dressing that blurs the lines between day and night. This blend of tradition and modernity created a collection that was both deeply rooted in history and boldly forward-looking.

Integrating Sportswear and Reinventing Denim Styles

The runways of London Fashion Week revealed a prominent trend towards integrating athletic elements into everyday fashion, alongside a bold reinterpretation of denim. Sportswear, traditionally distinct from high fashion, was seamlessly woven into collections through nostalgic accessories and branded apparel, suggesting a versatile and comfortable aesthetic for the coming season. This fusion encourages a relaxed yet stylish approach, demonstrating how athletic pieces can transition from casual daywear to sophisticated evening looks. Additionally, denim was elevated beyond its utilitarian origins, showcasing innovative cuts and styling that challenge conventional perceptions of the fabric.

Athletic influences were evident across numerous collections, with designers incorporating items like vintage-inspired bags and striped athletic tops. These pieces were styled to create cohesive athletic ensembles for daily wear or transformed into chic going-out tops when paired with more formal items like leather trousers and tailored blazers. Parallel to this, denim received a daring makeover, moving beyond basic jeans to feature complex layering and unique textures. Collections showcased raw denim shirts and furry-collared jackets, presenting denim as a versatile and fashion-forward component of layered outfits, thus offering fresh inspiration for styling this classic fabric.

See More