STYLE FOR LIFE

Its latest season sees Ermenegildo Zegna expanding its all-encompassing universe.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

Its latest season sees Ermenegildo Zegna expanding its all-encompassing universe.

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Expect to see much more of Ermenegildo Zegna outside the boardroom and on the streets in the seasons to come. With his latest Fall/Winter 2018/19 offerings, artistic director Alessandro Sartori continues to steer the classic Italian house towards a more contemporary direction. What this means for the modern sartorialist is that Zegna is sharpening its sport-inflected, streetwise aesthetic, but without compromising on the label’s hallmarks such as impeccable tailoring and fine fabrics.

While the brand’s bespoke and made-to-measure clientele might already be familiar with its XXX symbol, a signifier of the manual, artisanal craft of Ermenegildo Zegna Couture, it will be making its way to more accessible status symbols such as backpacks and shoes. Keep an eye out for the XXX jacquard motif and logo on ready-to-wear clothing and accessories, like the brand’s technical leather bags – understated, yet more visible than the brand has ever been.

 

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FIRST STEP
Zegna’s fine raw fibre is processed and woven in a lengthy process.
 
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NAILED IT
Inspired by the utilitarian nail, Cartier’s iconic Juste un Clou jewellery range has always had unisex appeal. This season, the French watch and jewellery label has expanded the range to include men’s tie pins and cufflinks – the latter is likely to make its way to some women’s workwear wardrobe too. The latest Juste un Clou rings and bracelets also come in slimmer, more discreet versions, ideal for those who favour subtlety.
 
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MR TOUGH GUY
Grown-up biker boys, there’s a new luxe collection of leather gear to elevate your off duty wardrobe. Berluti’s Off The Road accessory range of bags, boots and outerwear is – but of course – handcrafted from buttery soft Vitello Fiore leather. The star product, an ultralight carbon-fibre helmet created in collaboration with Veldt, has a stunning handmade Venezia leather eye shell and comes with a shield, visor and leather eyeshade that simply oozes charming Italian insouciance.
 
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INVESTMENT WORTHY

Leave it to Hermes’ artistic director Veronique Nichanian to deliver a menswear collection that’s timeless, yet timely, all at once. This season, the designer delivers a collection of relaxed and superluxe styles without compromising on the luxury marque’s signatures. There’s a white shearling coat that’s genius in its versatility, knitted cashmere pullovers with just the right amount of roominess, and fluid cashmere pants that just never get old. One thing’s certain – all are keepers.

TEXT KAREN TEE