Moncler continues its successful ‘Genius’ concept and keeps on inviting designers to reinterpret the famous duvet. Valentino’s Pierpaolo Piccioli presented his second line-up for the brand and it’s as good as the first one. The statuesque, floor-sweeping puffer dresses are here again, but this time they’re covered in prints made in collaboration with model Liya Kebede, and her sustainable and socially responsible label Lemlem. Graphic vibrancy of Lemlem’s contribution did wonders to the exaggerated volumes of Piccioli’s creations. Now, they look even more bold, especially when kept in colour (just see all these yellows, oranges and pistachios…). But coming back to Kebede’s Lemlem, it’s produced by artisan seamstresses in her native Ethiopia, who apply traditional patterns to everyday, approachable clothes. Re-creating the Lemlem fabrics in nylon not only gave additional work opportunities, but as well raised awareness of the brand’s actions. With grace and, very much in Piccioli’s manner, beauty.
Collage by Edward Kanarecki.