The evolution of fashion grows exponentially from a rich archive of influences, with each era crafting its unique interpretation of the 'classical.' Salvatore Settis, in his exploration of the "Futuro del classico," reminds us that the classical is not just a relic of the past but a dynamic force shaping our present and future. It is within this dynamic context that Lardini, a vanguard of modern tailoring, weaves a narrative that transcends conventional norms.
For Lardini, Milan is a canvas, and a space where aesthetics merge seamlessly with functionality. Their celebration of modern tailoring is not only about conforming to recognized rules of formality but a pursuit of "dressing beautifully." The brand dismantles traditional conventions and ushers in a new era for menswear, where individuality is paramount.
In Lardini's atelier, craftsmanship is an ode to urban life, shedding the superfluous in favor of a deeper connection. Here, formal wear transforms into a laboratory of possibilities, a space where every garment combination is an opportunity for men to express their unique personalities.
The essence of Lardini's approach lies in the meticulous exploration of simplicity and rational proportions. Fabrics are chosen like bricks, contributing to the historical district of traditional tailoring. The color palette is a journey through misty hues, from antique pink and citrine yellow to honey, camel, chestnut, and mahogany. It evolves into darker shades, gradually shifting from light gray to bituminous, dense denim blue, midnight blue, and total black. A powerful ring of carmine red boldly punctuates a symphony of colors.
Shapes and volumes appear deceptively simple, concealing a depth of thought and innovation. The double pea coat takes center stage as an alternative to the conventional jacket, while the Donegal dinner jacket transcends occasions. The waistcoat of the wool jersey three-piece suit takes on a life of its own when paired with other garments, and the coat/cloak echoes the sacredness of the kimono's fullness. Single-breasted jackets with peaked lapels coexist with overshirts, boasting contemporary sophistication.
Luigi Lardini articulates this collection as "like a big wardrobe where everyone feels free to choose how and what to wear according to the taste and mood of the moment because fashion is a way of expressing oneself." More than just a collection, it's a statement on "evolving elegance." Lardini believes in perpetually transforming elegance, aligning with the evolving role of men in today's society, going beyond mere apparel but expanding into a sophisticated tool for self-exploration and the defining of one's identity.
Attention to detail is a hallmark of Lardini's vision. Lapels are removed from the evening blazer, adorned with jeweled buttons, elevating outerwear garments. The stitches on knitted jackets play with textures and softness, ties transition from status symbols to decorative elements. A sense of sophisticated "ars combinatoria" pervades every piece, from the trench coat over a matching suit to the freedom to mix and match everything.
In celebration of Lardini's groundbreaking ethos that elegance is a perpetual evolution, Highsnobiety hosted a gathering backdropped against the glistening lights of Milano, and treated those in attendance to secret performance by Luzai, the self-taught musician and rapidly rising star of the Italian electronic scene whose own avant-garde approach to their artistry harmonizes perfectly with that of Lardini’s. This special night not only transcended traditional boundaries but also unveiled a new era in menswear, leaving an indelible mark on the new era ushered in by Lardini.
