Alessandro Dell’Acqua, for his resort collection, chose to refine his established style rather than overhaul it entirely. He noted that in the current retail environment, shoppers require a compelling reason to visit physical stores, but not so much novelty that it distracts from their original intent. The key is finding a middle ground between surprise and familiarity: a distinct style, enhanced with just enough new elements to maintain interest.
As a Neapolitan, Dell’Acqua may appreciate a culinary analogy. His approach is akin to a classic pizza margherita, embellished with an extra layer of mozzarella, more basil, and perhaps olives and lemon zest. This results in a richer, more flavorful version, yet it remains unmistakably a pizza margherita. Certain boundaries, like adding pineapple as a topping, are strictly avoided.
Dell’Acqua has the talent to infuse classic designs with a hint of extravagance, making even unconventional pairings appear stylish. “I’ve often blurred the lines between the masculine and the feminine, but this season I wanted to bring them together in a way that felt less like peaceful coexistence and more like an engaging dialogue,” he explained. The resort collection was not about blending gender norms; it was about making them confront each other. Hyper-feminine elements such as lace, ruffles, and delicate embellishments were accentuated to challenge the sharper aspects of menswear.
Lingerie-inspired tops, embroidered accents, and tulle and silk skirts were combined with canvas jackets. Nylon anoraks and tailored pieces, alongside striped shirts and chunky cotton knits, created a contrast between delicacy and structure. “It’s femininity that refuses to play a supporting role or remain discreetly in the background,” Dell’Acqua stated. “Instead, it steps forward, entirely at ease alongside strength and discipline.”
