Back to Basics
Discover Brunello Cucinelli’s elevated take on summer staples
For Spring 2019, Brunello Cucinelli whisks us vicariously to his hometown of Solomeo – a picturesque 14th century Perugian hamlet. The beauty of the designer’s birthplace was palpable in the bucolic beauty of the tenderly homespun materials; natural fibers like linen, hemp, silk and cotton play out in earthy tones that instantly evoke the soft hues of the Italian village’s lush scenery. Aptly entitled ‘Rustic Charm’, the collection is a masterclass in laid-back elegance and unfussy luxury.
While a sense of wistfulness set the tone, it was the modern woman who played muse to Cucinelli, and his traditional wardrobe comes with a contemporary twist as sartorial foundations like leather blazers and utilitarian cotton jumpsuits coexist seamlessly with extravagant printed tulle maxi skirts and double-breasted linen blazers strewn with micro sequins. A focus on fluidity of form highlighted Cucinelli’s key style pillars: the subtle juxtaposition of masculinity and femininity, and artful versatility. One striped maxi dress comes with a removable vest, while a pair wide-leg houndstooth checked pants were styled with an elegant asymmetric top, and high-waisted, paper-bag silhouettes lend an hourglass definition to loosely tailored pants.
There’s a distinctly escapist feel in the neutral-hued boilersuits, comfy cashmere pants and leather sandals. So, whether your summer plans involve an exotic getaway, a sun-drenched city break, or perhaps a trip to cooler climes, Cucinelli has curated a well-considered collection that will ensure your vacation look is just as refined as your everyday style, whatever the weather. Clean-lined summer workwear has been thoughtfully accounted for, too: the poplin striped shirt dress, high-waisted city shorts and striped three-quarter-sleeve shirts are precisely the type of chic yet uncomplicated pieces we crave in high summer.
“Leather blazers and utilitarian cotton jumpsuits coexist seamlessly with extravagant printed tulle maxi skirts
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Of course, as the reigning 'king of cashmere', Cucinelli’s hand-knit sweaters – blending cotton, raffia and mohair yarns – can be counted on for ultra-refined cover-ups. This season, Cucinelli seemed in a playful mood as he embellished his knits with tonal paillettes, elevating cardigans and slouchy crewnecks for after dark, and reminding us that however understated this label seems, it embodies the pinnacle of Italian luxury. Take your cues from the label’s look-book and wear them tucked nonchalantly into high-waisted pants.
Cucinelli believes in quality in all aspects of his business and the brand is built on a sincere respect for his employees and the ethical impact of his business; every stitch of clothing is made in Italy, mostly in and around Solomeo. So, whatever pieces you choose, you can be guaranteed they have been crafted with the utmost care. Through this, Brunello Cucinelli not only catches our eye, it captures our hearts, too.