After last year's phenomenal Hacker Project twist with Balenciaga in the Gucci Aria show, fashion observers now know better than to dismiss rumours of alliances, no matter how inconceivable it may seem. Still, the tip-offs did little to dilute the surprise runway show held at the Versace headquarters in Via Gesù last September. It was a milestone moment when Kim Jones emerged and Versace's iconic Medusa on the wall flipped to reveal Fendi's FF logo, signalling Donatella Versace's turn to present her collection. After seasons of pandemic-induced digital presentations, the entire manifestation was just the fabulous, supermodel-powered finale needed to conclude Milan Fashion Week on a high note.
The two Italian powerhouses were quick to eschew the oft-used collaboration” for “swap”. The definition explains how the partnership works: Donatella Versace (chief creative officer) switched roles with Kim Jones (artistic director of Fendi haute couture, ready-to-wear and fur collections for women), Silvia Venturini Fendi (artistic director of Fendi accessories and menswear) and her daughter Delfina Delettrez (creative director of Fendi jewellery) to reimagine Fendi, and vice versa.
While the mash-up, dubbed Fendace, isn't quite what one would call critically acclaimed work, the significance bears the heft of many firsts in fashion history. For one, the exchange gave each designer complete creative rein. The maisons opened up their archives to the other, and each will produce its reinterpretation of the other brand, poised to launch worldwide this month.
For another, it crossed “party lines” of different luxury conglomerates. Fendi is owned by Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH), whereas Versace belongs to Capri Holdings.
This story is from the May 2022 edition of Prestige Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the May 2022 edition of Prestige Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Sailing Into A Dream
Scenes from the fantasy feature Game of Thrones come to life in the otherworldly landscapes of the Arctic Circle.
Here Come The Sun Seats
Italian furniture has long held the crown for blending luxurious, sophisticated design with impeccable craftsmanship.
ABSOLUMENT FAB
France's premier fair for fine-art and antiques returns for its third edition inside its new home in the Grand Palais.
Through the Director's Lens
Filmmaker JIA ZHANGKE and his protégé RAFAEL MANUEL share their perspectives on life, cinema and their current projects.
THE CUTTING EDGE
Having long played quiet supporting roles in the gem industry, gem cutters are finally having their day in the sun. Four acclaimed independent master gem cutters share more about their love of the craft and the creation of their best pieces.
Spheres of Power
Following up on the gold- and titanium-focused Tiffany Titan by Pharrell Williams launch collection, the superstar now turns to pearls for a softer, but no less striking, second act.
Horological Masterpieces Reimagined
Beyond the wrist, these timekeepers transcend all traditional boundaries.
WILD IMAGINATION
Cartier's latest category-spanning Panthère de Cartier novelties showcase the endless ways in which the panther continues to inspire.
READY FOR ACTION
The latest watch to come from the celebrated Richard Mille and McLaren partnership looks set to be another trailblazing timepiece.
THE RIGHT ANGLES
Twenty-five years after the launch of its last new collection, Twenty-4, Patek Philippe introduces the Cubitus range.