In the bustling atmosphere of Milan Fashion Week, Marni’s creative director, Francesco Risso, transformed his latest collection reveal into an impromptu jazz club. Notable personalities such as Tracee Ellis Ross strutted down the runway to showcase Risso’s ingenuity for the Fall-Winter 2025-26 collection. Risso was inspired by a creative residency in London alongside Nigerian artists Slawn and Soldier, during which they collaborated purely for enjoyment. Their artistic partnership was rekindled as Risso returned to painting, and several of the resulting artworks were incorporated into the garments and adorned the walls of the venue.
Backstage, Risso described the creative synergy: “Our hands were dancing together, literally.” The collection was conceived with an ambitious vision, featuring sculptural elements that Risso envisions as a “seed vault,” laying the groundwork for future collections while capturing the very essence of Marni.
In a vivid display of artistry, suits were embellished with oversized painted flowers, their long stems gracefully trailing from bias-cut jackets. A whimsical and attention-grabbing piece took form as a bumblebee sweater, a unique knit sculpture. Meanwhile, wool coats transformed into cocoon-like shapes with puffed backs, and dramatic oversized fur collars added a sense of flair. Each garment told its own narrative, like a printed tale of a collection of good-luck wolves that Risso presented to his guests.
Reflecting on the collection’s deeper meaning, Risso expressed, “It’s time for reflection. It’s time to preserve.”
