FASHION /
MEN
September 7, 2015
The "MADE IN JAPAN" Project Begins | Ermenegildo Zegna
Ermenegildo Zegna
Expressing Stefano Pilati's Designs with Japanese Craftsmanship and Materials
Innovation from Evolving Classics (1)
For over 100 years since its founding, Ermenegildo Zegna has pursued textile quality and valued craftsmanship. This season, the brand introduces innovation with a collaboration between Stefano Pilati, Head Designer of the Couture Collection, and Japanese creators.
Text by ITO Yuji (OPENERS)
A Commitment to Textiles is Etched in its DNA
Ermenegildo Zegna welcomed Stefano Pilati as the Head Designer of its Couture line starting with the Spring/Summer 2014 collection. Since then, the Couture Collection has rapidly ascended to the forefront of fashion. While attention is focused on his designs, the brand continues to cherish something fundamental: its DNA of dedication to textiles.
Founded in 1910, Ermenegildo Zegna's fabric mill, known as 'Lanificio Ermenegildo Zegna,' handles the entire process from raw material selection to finishing in-house. The direct sourcing of the finest natural fibers like wool, cashmere, and vicuña from their origins underscores the brand's profound commitment to textiles.
Indeed, the company continuously researches and pursues superior textiles, developing innovative materials while balancing craftsmanship and technology. This inherent DNA, driven by a pursuit of the new rather than resting on tradition, is what defines the brand.
Collaboration with Japanese Artisans Realized
Stefano Pilati's arrival further catalyzed this DNA. With a strong focus on both design and textiles, he helms 'Ermenegildo Zegna Couture,' and the 'MADE IN JAPAN' project is its capsule collection.
This innovative project fuses the designs of 'Ermenegildo Zegna Couture' with the culture and traditions of Japan, a nation that shares Italy's dedication to craftsmanship. Stefano Pilati leads the design, while Japanese artisans handle the creation, including tailoring and material production.
For instance, the broken suit, a mismatched set-up, is tailored in the classic Neapolitan style by Ciccio, a renowned tailor, while the pullover shirt in seersucker is crafted by Mr. Yamagami, who has received awards from a Florentine artisan guild.
The 'MADE IN JAPAN' project features four lines: 'Tailoring,' 'Casual,' 'Denim,' and 'Accessories,' each showcasing innovative items infused with the unique skills of Japanese artisans. These pieces will be available in stores from Saturday, September 5th, so we invite you to experience their allure.
Page02.What is the collection dedicated to the next generation of leaders?
Ermenegildo Zegna
Expressing Stefano Pilati's Designs with Japanese Craftsmanship and Materials
Text by ITO Yuji (OPENERS)
Innovation from Evolving Classics (2)
Pilati's Vision for the New Generation's Wardrobe
Stefano Pilati, who brought innovation by applying a modern approach to the tradition of high-quality textiles, chose Japan as the stage for this project to imbue the collection with greater sensitivity and expertise through the work of Japan's talented young artisans.
In executing the 'MADE IN JAPAN' project, he reflects on the nature of style for the new generation as follows:
'For the energetic new generation, I felt it was important to emphasize a studied nonchalance to establish Ermenegildo Zegna as an unparalleled brand. Some individuals express themselves through their style rather than through adornment.'
Based on his study of these individuals, a capsule collection has been created for the 'New Leadership Generation'—those who are understated, inspiring to others, elegant, and possess their own distinct style.
Takashi Homma Captures the Project's Worldview
For this 'MADE IN JAPAN' capsule collection, contemporary photographer Takashi Homma visualizes the concept. Homma is responsible for the campaign short film, making-of movie, and portraits.
The campaign features five representative next-generation leaders from Japan, including actor Ryo Kase and musician Keiichi Shibuya. Additionally, five key opinion leaders from diverse fields such as business and creative arts embody one category each from 'Tailoring,' 'Casual,' and 'Denim.'
We encourage you to explore the chemistry that unfolds between 'Ermenegildo Zegna Couture,' the craftsmanship of Japanese artisans, Takashi Homma's creations, and the New Leadership Generation.
In our next installment, we will report on the launch party for the 'MADE IN JAPAN' project, featuring interviews with Stefano Pilati and Takashi Homma.
Takashi Homma
From 2011 to 2012, he held his first museum solo exhibitions, 'New Documentary,' at three museums in Japan. His publications include 'Tanoshī Shashin: Yōko no tame no Shashin Kyōshitsu' (Heibonsha) and the recent photo book 'New Documentary' (SUPER LABO). In 2015, he presented the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine art program 'Seeing Itself.'