Il bel vestire, an inherently Italian mindset of turning up well, is something we could all adopt. It shouldn’t entirely be a new concept to any of us, however. The idea of making an effort to turn up for something in a put-together manner is a sign of respect. Not only for the person one is meeting or the event but, most importantly, for one’s self.
It’s no surprise that Brunello Cucinelli has been an unyielding believer of this. Since its inception in 1978, the Italian brand associated with gentle luxury has charted a path of crafting contemporary menswear steeped in sartorial excellence. Its Autumn/Winter 2024 menswear collection focuses on elements that have been exalted as menswear staples and that are interpreted in Brunello Cucinelli’s effortless stylings.
The collection is rooted in ’80s-styled choices. Nothing is slim-fitted or stays close to the skin. Outerwear—a selection of decadent trench coats, overcoats and peacoats—sit squarely on the shoulders with a tailored cut that aims to enhance the physique, yet imbued with an elegant ease. Suiting retains an air of formality, but at the same time, designed to be versatile for most occasions (or non-occasions). The colour palette is one that’s familiar to any Brunello Cucinelli follower: soft and earthy to further emphasise the collection’s ease and versatility.
Lest we forget, tailoring isn’t the be all and end all of sartorial elegance. The collection’s knitwear stand out with tactile craftsmanship, the likes of waffle stitches, flecked yarns and mélange treatments, while shaped into cosy volumes with a refined structure. They’re not afterthoughts; shawl-collared cardigans are washed with soft colours decorated with geometric motifs that, again, call to the ’80s but paired with a denim shirt. You’d easily do a double-take not because of the offbeat choice, but rather in how the pairing makes complete sense and looks just as exceptional.
As it has with the rest of its collections, Brunello Cucinelli executes Autumn/Winter 2024 with a materials-first approach. But this time around, the focus is sharpened to ensure versatile functionality. While there is a certain structure apparent throughout the collection, the materials are kept luxurious with a soft and lightweight hand-feel to exude that signature Brunello Cucinelli ease. Blended fabrics help to elevate even the most casual of pieces as synthetic fibres are combined with the natural, balancing functionality with luxury.
Brunello Cucinelli might deal in the luxury fashion space but it is fair to say that the brand is a way of life—one that is all about turning up and doing it so respectfully well.
