Walking Down Memory Lane at Fendi's 100th Birthday Party

In the heart of Milan, where fashion used to pulse through cobblestone streets and historic edifices and now faces economic difficulties, Fendi unveiled its Fall 2025 collection. The event, which took place on the second day of recent Milan Fashion Week, was not merely a showcase of garments but a testament to a century-long legacy, intertwining the brand's storied past with contemporary innovation. Marking its 100th anniversary, Fendi's catwalk was imbued with a sense of reverence and festivity, and helped lift the spirits of an otherwise moody fashion month.

This centennial collection was designed under the discerning eye of Silvia Venturini Fendi, a long missed Artistic Director to most of the fashion crowd, who returned to the creative helm just for the occasion. Part of the Fendi family, she paid homage to its rich heritage while charting a path forward. As a nod to the past, the runway opened thanks to nephews Tazio and Dardo and featured an impressive array of 86 looks, each meticulously crafted to narrate Fendi's journey through the decades. It was a harmonious blend of archival motifs and contemporary silhouettes, showcasing the brand's commitment to innovation without forsaking its roots. Central to Fendi's identity is its association with fur, a material that has become increasingly contentious in modern fashion discourse. The Fall 2025 collection did not shy away from this heritage, presenting fur pieces that were both luxurious and ethically sourced, according to the brand. The decision sparked conversations about sustainability and tradition, but it is safe to say that the conversation doesn’t look like it is ready to take place, with an astounding rise in the usage of fur within the collections of the last few months. Beyond fur, Fendi delved into rich knitwear and textured fabrics. Ribbed knit dresses with scalloped hems and masterfully crafted leather goods highlighted Silvia Venturini Fendi’s dedication to artistry and quality. The tactile nature of these pieces invited viewers to not only see but feel the evolution of the brand's craftsmanship. The color scheme traversed a spectrum from muted earth tones to vibrant hues, reflecting the brand's journey through various fashion eras.

With accessories being a cornerstone of Fendi's offerings, the iconic Baguette bag made a triumphant return, reimagined in various textures and sizes while Sarah Jessica Parker – who contributed to the bag’s success with her famous quote from Sex and the City back in the days – cheered front row. Even though FROW brought many celebs together, such as Elizabeth Olsen and Luca Guadagnino to mention a few, it was the models’ cast who stole the show. The runway was graced by a diverse lineup of models, blending industry veterans with fresh faces: notably, supermodels like Adriana Lima and Natasha Poly walked alongside emerging talents. Embodying the brand's inclusive ethos, 60’s model Penelope Tree joined the cast at 75 years old, topping off an array of bodies and representations that felt like a breath of fresh air to Milan’s known recalcitrance. The chosen venue for this monumental event was the newly inaugurated Spazio Fendi, a space that seamlessly blended the brand's historical essence with modern aesthetics. The ambiance was reminiscent of Fendi's atelier from the '60s and '70s, a period when the Fendi family transformed their workspace into a personal party salon. This setting provided an intimate yet grand backdrop, allowing attendees to immerse themselves fully in the brand's legacy, which later transformed itself into the 100th birthday party and its exceptional guests.

Fendi's Fall 2025 show was more than a fashion presentation; it was a narrative of a brand that has seamlessly woven its history into the fabric of contemporary fashion. As Fendi embarks on its next century, this collection stands as a testament to its enduring legacy and its commitment to evolving while honoring its rich heritage.

Courtesy: Fendi

PR: Fendi Group

Text: Giorgia Feroldi