Brunello Cuccinelli, the fashion mogul known for his luxurious and soft-hued cashmere designs, recently made a bold move by staging a rare runway show at his headquarters in Solomeo, Umbria. This was a significant moment for Cuccinelli as it marked the first time he was included in the official catwalk schedule for Milan Fashion Week. In the past, he preferred to showcase his collections within the confines of his art liberté verrière courtyard showroom in the heart of the fashion capital.
For the Fall/Winter 2021 season, Cuccinelli decided to take things up a notch and presented a fully-fledged video shot inside Solomeo, a historic village that he personally restored to become the philanthropic center of his fashion empire. The video started with a breathtaking shot of the town’s campanile at sunset, capturing the beauty of a misty valley. It then meandered through the charming brick lanes and paths of Solomeo, offering glimpses of ploughed fields, before settling on a post-modern exterior proscenium. Carved into the marble of this structure was the phrase: “Tributo all’Umanita dell’Uomo” or “Tribute to Mankind’s Humanity.”
The video showcased a cast of 15 models, all adorned in Cuccinelli’s signature soft-hued cashmere. Despite the ongoing pandemic, the models wore surgical masks as they posed in a glasshouse that provided panoramic views of distant pine trees. The collection featured meticulously crafted pieces, including newspaper-boy pleated pants paired with ribbed turtle-necks, intarsia-style woven cardigans in pale gray, soft-shouldered coats with curvy lapels, corduroy sweat-pant style trousers, micro-ribbed cashmere down coats, chenille tanks, llama-style coats, shaggy vests, and lightly glittering waistcoats. Each piece exuded understated elegance and versatility, staying true to the Cuccinelli aesthetic.
This runway presentation served as a contemplative moment amidst the fast-paced and extravagant world of women’s ready-to-wear fashion. The choice of music, “Separation” by Spanish composer Adrian Berenguer, further enhanced the nostalgic and introspective ambiance of the show. Cuccinelli’s decision to showcase his collection in Solomeo, his beloved hometown, demonstrated his deep connection to his roots and his commitment to the values of humanity.
Overall, Cuccinelli’s rare runway display was a testament to his unique approach to fashion, combining craftsmanship, philanthropy, and an appreciation for the simple beauty of the Italian countryside. By choosing to present his collection outside the traditional confines of Milan Fashion Week, he created a captivating visual experience that transported viewers to the heart and soul of his brand. In a rapidly evolving industry, it is refreshing to see designers like Cuccinelli embracing unconventional methods to express their creativity and engage with audiences in a more meaningful and personal way.
Links:
1. “Brunello Cuccinelli’s official website” https://www.brunellocucinelli.com/
2. “Milan Fashion Week official website” https://milanomodadonna.it/en/
