Emilia Wickstead’s Pre-Fall Collection: A Cinematic Journey to Italy
For her pre-fall collection, Emilia Wickstead drew inspiration from classic cinema and the allure of Italy. Taking a break from her usual themes, Wickstead delved into the world of Roberto Rossellini’s 1954 film, Journey to Italy. This melancholic neorealist masterpiece served as the perfect muse for Wickstead, who was captivated by the characters’ wardrobes and the film’s Italian setting.
The collection pays homage to the film’s iconic fashion moments, from Ingrid Bergman’s luxurious coats and silk scarves to George Sanders’ classically masculine tailoring. Wickstead reimagines these looks for the modern woman, offering a contemporary twist on vintage silhouettes. The gingham check pattern worn by Sanders is reinvented in a stunning dress with a button-down collar, while a black lace dress nods to Bergman’s elegant style.
Glamour takes center stage in the collection, with a gold-foiled lace gown inspired by Naples’ opulent Baroque architecture. Floral prints in shades of pink and blue evoke Italian tapestries and the lavish interiors of southern Italian mansions. Caped evening gowns add a touch of drama, with fabric swags draped over the shoulder for a hint of old Hollywood glamour.
One of the most exciting aspects of the collection for Wickstead was the opportunity to collaborate with photographer Pavel Kharatia. Together, they created images that paid homage to Journey to Italy, with models striking elegant poses reminiscent of Ingrid Bergman. The photos capture the essence of the film while adding a modern twist for today’s woman.
Emilia Wickstead’s pre-fall collection is a cinematic journey to Italy, blending classic Hollywood glamour with contemporary sophistication. Each piece tells a story of timeless elegance and Italian allure, inviting women to step into the director’s chair and embrace their inner screen siren.
