News feed
If you would have told me last week that the British Royal Family, specifically Princess Anne, would be the loose inspiration behind the Fendi Fall Winter 2024 menswear show I wouldn’t have believed you.
Diana? Yes. His Royal Highness, King Charles? Naturally! Even The late Elizabeth? Perhaps. But Princess Anne? As it turns out, not only is she a surprising muse but quite a good fit for the kind of functional luxury that Fendi has captured for their collection.
Anne wasn’t necessarily the official inspiration, but she was part of the mood board so to speak according to Silvia Venturini Fendi, Fendi’s artistic director of accessories and menswear, post show. What was most important was to create a clothing that spoke to working needs. Functionality, she explained, is only the only “theme” that she truly adheres to.
The naming of the Royal sister also points to another trend happening in menswear: the integration of traditionally “feminine” designs into men’s wardrobes. The flow between the genders is finally going both ways, something that Silvia herself is rather uniquely placed to do as one of the few women designing menswear. This, she would argue, is not because of trend or cultural statement but purely what’s the most functional style she is working with.
Scottish-inspired kilts, long pleated shorts, walk alongside classic trousers are modern twists. The collection emphasises generous outerwear, including fisherman’s coats and waterproof wax jackets, alongside luxurious bombers and peacoats with detailed shearling accents. Colourful knitwear adds a playful touch to the tailoring, while a range of materials like washed denim, mohair, and polished leather bring texture and richness. The accessories line, a tribute to Fendi’s craftsmanship, introduces the new Siesta bag, Melon hobo and backpack styles, and two-tone leather wash bags. Footwear includes platform lace-up deck shoes and grain leather Wellington boots, highlighting the collection’s focus on sophisticated comfort and artisanal quality.
The concept of a British pastoral remains one of the most consistent modes of quiet luxury: that of leisure and land and clothing that suits a life spent in nature. Interestingly, where Prada’s take on this binary was to bring nature INTO the office Silvia is ready to shake off the shackles of urbanity for the quiet pace of a farm.
