ZARA, the global fashion giant, has announced a highly anticipated collaboration with acclaimed designer Stefano Pilati. This exclusive collection, set to launch on October 3rd, 2024, will be available worldwide through ZARA’s official online store and select physical locations, including their flagship stores in Shinjuku and Ginza, Japan.
Stefano Pilati, known for his exceptional design prowess, boasts a remarkable career. He served as Creative Director for Yves Saint Laurent from 2004 to 2012, followed by his role as Head Designer for Ermenegildo Zegna from 2013 to 2015. His extensive 40-year design career has garnered widespread acclaim, culminating in his recent participation in the ‘Friends of Fendi’ project for Fendi in November 2023.
The ‘Stefano Pilati x ZARA’ collection offers a curated selection of 28 women’s designs, 53 men’s designs, and an array of accessories. The collection embodies ‘timeless elegance,’ with a focus on tailoring and Pilati’s signature blend of sophistication and sensuality, seamlessly adapting to contemporary trends.
Complementing the exquisite designs is a captivating global campaign, expertly captured by legendary photographer Steven Meisel. Pilati himself stars as the model, joined by his longtime friend, Gisele Bündchen, creating a deeply personal and intimate atmosphere that perfectly complements the collection’s essence.
We delve deeper into the collaboration with a fascinating Q&A with Stefano Pilati:
Q:
What were your initial thoughts when ZARA approached you for this collaboration?A:
I was truly honored and excited. Marta Ortega (ZARA’s CEO and daughter of founder Amancio Ortega) and I have a long-standing friendship, and we had always hoped to collaborate in some capacity.Q:
What were ZARA’s expectations and themes for this project?A:
They wanted me to draw inspiration from my own unique style. Initially, we were slated to create a capsule collection of 16 menswear pieces. Later, ZARA extended the invitation to design women’s wear based on the same concept.Q:
You’ve worked with various brands and collaborated on numerous projects. ZARA is known for offering high-quality designs at accessible prices. What were the unique challenges you encountered in this collaboration?A:
The main challenge was maintaining focus and productivity within a different workflow. Due to logistical constraints, my team and I had limited in-person meetings with ZARA. This created a slight distance compared to my usual ‘hands-on’ approach, which was initially a bit disconcerting. However, we ultimately delivered a collection that met our expectations and were proud to witness its realization alongside the ZARA team.Q:
How did you approach the design process and build the collection around your initial ideas?A:
We started with extensive fabric research and then seamlessly moved into fittings in La Coruña, Spain, and Paris, with complete creative autonomy.Q:
Are there any particular looks or favorite pieces within the collection that you’re particularly proud of?A:
This capsule collection encompasses all categories, making it seemingly expansive. However, due to its appropriate size, we were able to dedicate equal attention to each item. Therefore, I’m very pleased with the overall outcome.Q:
Can you share your thoughts on the global campaign shot by Steven Meisel, especially since you’re a part of it?A:
It was truly one of the most memorable experiences of my career. The team involved in this campaign is truly world-class. Collaborating with Steven felt like the culmination of my legacy.The ‘Stefano Pilati x ZARA’ collection launches on October 3rd, 2024, promising a blend of classic elegance and modern allure. Be sure to visit ZARA’s online store or their select physical locations to experience this exciting collaboration firsthand.
