15 Intimate Photos That Show the Romance of Fendi's Latest Collection

In a time when we're all debating solutions to rising sea levels and shifting air quality, Fendi's Men's Spring/Summer 2020 Collection makes its bid for why Mother Nature is the original luxury. Rich with earthy tones and functional, stylish pieces, the Italian fashion house provides a new uniform for us -- the caretakers of the land, sea, and everything in between. Here Fendi Creative Director Silvia Venturini Fendi shares the epic journey that made this special collaboration with film director Luca Guadagnino bloom, while Robby Carney, of New York Models, and LZ G, of Click Models, bring their vision to life, taking us on a romantic stroll through a garden fantasy.

How long have you known Luca, and how did your friendship begin?

I first met Luca when he lived in Rome. We co-produced a short film together in 2005 called The First Sun, and that started a friendship which has seen additional collaborations producing his films I Am Love and Suspiria. It seemed such a natural partnership for Luca to be the guest designer for my men's collection, as I greatly value his artistic point of view.

Which films of Luca’s have particularly touched you?

I think that Luca is a brilliant director and all his films have moved me in different ways. I do love his film Call Me by Your Name, but of course also the ones that we have worked on together!

How were you able to utilize Luca’s brilliance for this very special collection?

Luca created these incredible digital "Botanics for Fendi" prints for me while he was on the set of his film Suspiria that were inspired by the memories of his childhood spent in Ethiopia. With this collection we wanted to bring to light man's delicate relationship with nature, which is an important issue for us both. This is how the gardening theme of the collection came to evolve.

What are some of the standout pieces or accessories from this collection?

In an earthy palette of greens, beige, and brown, this collection focuses on functionality and utility using natural materials such as silk, cotton, wool, leather, and suede. I loved designing the sartorial workwear pieces with a uniform feel, including overalls, cargo pants, shirts, and suits of course, with which we created weightlessness via strategically placed slits and openings in roomy volumes and perforated garments. They also feature functional and spacious removable pockets zipped into place for a playful touch. I love the "Botanics for Fendi" prints, as well as the geometric-floral patterns. And, of course, the iconic Peekaboo in woven raffia with the Pequin motif is a standout for me.

You often work with artists through your work at Fendi. Why do you find these collaborations so nourishing?

Identifying and supporting artists is critical as we depend on each other for inspiration, whether it be film directors or the young artists I have been collaborating with for over a decade at Design Miami. Nurturing today's artists is not only rewarding personally but it helps to propel the innovators of tomorrow. At Fendi, we promote individual creativity, in the same way our motto is "nothing is impossible." Creativity is open, and this has been part of our Maison since the beginning.

Where did you learn your love of gardening?

I grew up loving the outdoors and found gardening a way to relax and connect with nature. I particularly love growing fruit, vegetables, and roses at my country home outside of Rome.

Photographed by Emmanuel Sanchez Monsalve
Styled by Yashua Simmons
Modeled by Robby Carney at New York Models and LZ G at Click
Hair by Gonn Kinoshita using Amika
Makeup by Agus Suga using MAC Cosmetics
Floral Art / Set Design by Mihalis Petrou
Photo assistants: Sharimar Cruz, Charles Ludeke
Fashion assistant: Julian Mack
Studio: Highlight Studios