When then-artistic director Kris Van Assche showcased the Berluti Stellar for his Autumn/Winter 2019 debut, the sneaker was positioned as the brand's answer to the melding between its stellar shoemaking craftsmanship and streetwear cool. It was disruptive in the sense that it wasn't something one would expect of a brand more associated with its patina-techniques rather than trendy fashion.

It was also at a time where designer debuts needed to hit the checklist of a new luxury sneaker or a new luxury bag—things that aren't necessarily high priority of late.

The Stellar had its fair share of fans owed to its sculptural construction that in itself is a mark of Berluti's shoemaking expertise. The distinctive silhouette was sharp with angular edges even applied to the sneakers' outsoles that were pushed out slightly from the upper. And to match the edgier aesthetic, the original Stellar was introduced in a plain white leather as well as one fixed with a metallic toe cap that further accentuated its angular design.

Now that Berluti has settled in to its shoemaking heritage without seeing the need for a named artistic director, the brand has decided to reinvent the Stellar. Without straying too far from the original's intent and design, the reworked Stellar is less angular at the toe. And before you cry foul, the smoothened update is subtle, leaving the silhouette still as distinctive as ever. The decidedly more curved look is also apparent on the outsole that's now constructed with a denser heel for better cushioning.

The interior of the Stellar has also been reworked. Berluti's artisans have levelled up the comfort factor of the sneakers, adding cushioned padding on key contact areas such as around the tongue as well as the heels. The Venezia leathers used for the sneakers have also been treated to make it softer. But even so, the sneaker is also now more lightweight than its original design.

Most importantly, the Stella leans heavily into Berluti's heritage with three patinas that beautifully balance sophistication with a casual formality. The Abisso (blue), Marrone Intenso (brown), and Iron Grey (grey) patinas are ripe to be paired with anything from suiting to more casual separates—the latter patina is decorated with the brand's signature Scritto for that added flair.

The Berluti Stellar is now available in Berluti boutiques and online.