The fashion industry’s rising star Maximilian Davis has unveiled his debut in Ferragamo’s Spring and Summer 2023 (SS23) collection.
All eyes are on Ferragamo as the brand’s creative director Maximilian Davis reveals his debut SS23 collection, which pays tribute to the brand’s Hollywood roots. He aims to usher in a new era and a fresh language of luxury by blending contemporary design with the purity of Florentine style: an homage to the origins of the house.
Maximilian incorporates aspects of the new Hollywood era into his collection, taking inspiration from the relaxed, seaside glamour of the west coast city. He also infuses his designs with unconventional elements that challenge the conventional Hollywood style, such as glossy leathers, second-skin fits and micro shorts.
The collection features a range of elevated everyday essentials, including tank tops, polo necks, leggings and effortless knits. Ethereal elegance is achieved through the use of sheer knits, liquid silk and layers of organza, which are complemented by suede sandals and polished accessories that ground the offerings.
Maximilian also incorporates iconic elements from the brand’s archive, such as the sparkling red shoes Salvatore Ferragamo created for Marilyn Monroe in 1959, which are scattered throughout the collection in the form of crystals. Additionally, the collection features organic forms translated with linear precision, including the new Elina heel and a cut-out bag realised in polished leather that echo the shapes of sculptural jewellery. Floating scarves are draped into new forms and appear streamlined; archival prints are reduced, redrawn and reimagined, reviving the Ferragamo DNA. “It was about looking into the archive and establishing what could be redefined to become relevant for today,” says Maximilian.
The men’s collection exudes a fresh energy by incorporating tailored twists that modernise the traditional masculine themes of ‘80s executives. The result is a sophisticated and impeccably proportioned wardrobe crafted from fabrics typically associated with women’s clothing. The tuxedo is reimagined with shirting cut in silk organza and cotton poplin; collars or sleeves removed. The classic Wanda bag, originally introduced in 1988 and named after Salvatore’s wife, has been given a contemporary update. The new design features sleeker proportions, while a prismatic shoulder bag embodies a sense of minimalist modernity. “I want each piece to feel playful but also desirable as an object,” says Maximilian. “To stand on its own.”
The colour palette of the collection, extracted from artist Rachel Harrison’s Sunset Series, features degradé prints and hand-dyed knits, ranging from optic white to deep indigo, buttersoft yellow to sky blue. The brand’s iconic hue has been officially codified in a new Pantone red, which is prominently featured throughout the collection.
Maximilian’s debut collection for Ferragamo exudes effortless elegance and sensuality. Offering a fresh take on the brand’s Hollywood history, he has succeeded in creating a collection that is both playful and desirable.