S.S. Daley, the fashion house founded by renowned designer Steven Stokey-Daley, recently made waves in the fashion industry with a breathtaking show held in Florence. This milestone event was an extravagant celebration of singer Harry Styles’ decision to invest in the brand and took place inside the historic city hall of Florence Palazzo Vecchio, adding an extra touch of grandeur. The show, which took place during Pitti, the world’s largest menswear salon, proved to be the standout event of the entire exhibition.
Pitti, held twice a year within the walls of the medieval fortress Fortezza da Basso, is renowned for showcasing unique shows by up-and-coming designers. However, S.S. Daley’s show surpassed all expectations and took place beneath the awe-inspiring frescoes by painter Giorgio Vasari, elevating the entire experience. Simultaneously, it was announced that Harry Styles had become a minority shareholder of S.S. Daley, further solidifying his partnership and commitment to the brand.
The show itself was a visual masterpiece, leaving the audience in awe. The runway was adorned with wooden columns filled with plush pillows, creating a nostalgic ambiance reminiscent of a shared dormitory. The collection drew inspiration from the past and paid homage to Oxford University students and their living quarters. The ensembles ranged from a young scholar donning a black frock and silk scarf to the stunning combination of tails layered over khaki spy trench coats and black silk loon pants. The brand’s recent transition of tailoring to Italy was evident in the impeccable craftsmanship, showcasing polished and modern aesthetics through soft-shouldered silhouettes and precise cuts.
Daley’s exceptional attention to detail was evident in every piece, particularly in the hand-sewn knits that referenced the breathtaking tapestries seen throughout Florence. One standout piece was a sumptuous knit poncho featuring an elegant gentleman on horseback, evoking the image of a young boy hastily throwing on a blanket. The collection also included window pane check trenches, pajama stripe lounge suits, and a white shirt adorned with a printed design of a steelhead salmon. The fusion of fashion and theatricality brought a truly unique and captivating element to the show.
With a cohesive collection of approximately 30 looks, S.S. Daley’s show undeniably stole the spotlight at Pitti 105. This collection possesses the potential to be the most original and groundbreaking showcase of the entire European menswear catwalk season. While Harry Styles himself was not physically present at the show, it is evident that his investment in the brand will undoubtedly contribute to its continued success and growth.
Steven Stokey-Daley, a graduate of Westminster University with a degree in fashion design, has a clear vision for the future of S.S. Daley. His reinterpretation of British elitism through the lens of the British public school system has garnered immense recognition within the industry. In 2022, he was awarded the prestigious LVMH Prize, followed by the British Fashion Council Foundation Award for Best Emerging Designer. With these notable accolades, it is evident that Stokey-Daley possesses a promising and bright future within the fashion world.
– To learn more about S.S. Daley and explore their stunning collections, visit their official website here.
– For highlights and details about Pitti, the world’s largest menswear salon, visit their official website here.
