In times like today virtuality is the new media. Maybe it is just like Diego Della Valle mentioned: “We’ll all become movie producers!” He exclaimed after the Press conference of the Spring/ Summer show 2021 that took place at the Villa Necchi Campiglio, a signature architectural piece of Milanese modernism designed by Piero Portaluppi in 1932.
That place inspired my talk about this new collection designed by Creative Director Walter Chiapponi, who is a master of simplicity, clear lines and a mélange of colours. He is responsible since the Fall 2020 collection for the Italian Fashion house which stands for creative support, sustainability and craftmanship in the highest standard. Walter Chiapponi used the time right after the first Lock down to visit all the Tod’s manufactures to observe and study the skills of each individual craft.
Isn’t it fascinating that almost one hundred different hands- and craft skills are needed to create a pair of shoes which usually consists of 35 pieces? The famous Gommino shoes with at least 35 nops is the DNA and masterpiece of the house. Each season it comes in different colours, patterns and slightly altered designs.
The new collection is the result of Walter’s observation at the manufactures. He experimented with materials, took them one step further and sometimes even back into a retro design, like the fishnet knits in monochrome primary colours, or the cork platform shoes and the many crafted macramé designs making these materials come alive contrasting to a very modern design.
That answers the question of how we want to get dressed these days. Of course, comfortable. Whether we join a board meeting (at the moment mainly from home) or go for a walk in the woods. Materials and cuts are key. It is a luxury to feel soft, not too light silk on our skin, a cashmere knit and a perfect fitted shoe, made of soft leather.
Same with the many bags. Very versatile to use and to be worn in different ways. Or the signature T-bag, which can also be used as a belt bag, or cross body.
This effortless style Walter Chiapponi created, yet very dressed and elegant Italian look makes this collection fit perfectly our current living situation. We cannot wait to see Fall/ Winter coming into bits and pieces.
Until then find my favourite looks and accessories below:
