Fendi transformed Rome’s iconic Trevi Fountain into a magical stage, celebrating its 90th anniversary with a captivating fashion show that evoked the enchantment of fairytales. The shimmering backdrop of the Baroque fountain was the perfect setting for Fendi’s latest creations, as models gracefully glided across a transparent catwalk, seemingly walking on water.
A Fairytale Runway
This enchanting presentation transported guests into a world of dreams and fantasies. Models adorned in hand-painted dresses in soft hues of pink, blue, and cream, each one a work of art with delicate hand-stitched flowers and starlit scenes. The collection, inspired by the enchanting illustrations of Danish fairytale artist Kay Nielsen, was a symphony of soft luxury, showcasing 46 exquisite outfits that whispered tales of wonder and magic.
Modern-Day Hansel and Gretel
Glittering evening gowns with daring slits transformed models into modern-day Hansel and Gretel, their reflections shimmering in the turquoise waters, mirroring the gleam of moonlight on pebbles in a fairytale forest. Dresses were cinched at the waist or flowed gracefully with bell skirts, while the iconic Fendi fur coat made a luxurious appearance in lynx. However, it was a patterned cape, crafted from grey silk, that stole the show, its dramatic opening at both the front and back adding a touch of theatrical flair.
A Touch of Magic
Even the bags were infused with enchantment. They appeared to be crafted from fur, but were in fact meticulously assembled from tiny pieces of silk, creating a mesmerizing illusion of snakeskin. Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid were among the models who graced the runway, bringing the fantastical designs to life.
A Roman Tradition
As the show concluded, designer Karl Lagerfeld, clad in his signature gloves, took a bow alongside Silvia Venturini Fendi, the house’s accessories designer. With a mischievous grin, Lagerfeld walked to the center of the glass bridge and tossed three coins over his shoulder into the fountain, a time-honored tradition said to ensure a return to the Eternal City.
A Legacy of Glamour and Romance
The Trevi Fountain, immortalized in Federico Fellini’s “La Dolce Vita,” was recently restored with the support of Fendi, a fitting tribute to the brand’s long-standing connection to the city. The fountain, commissioned by Pope Clement XII in 1730, stands as a testament to Rome’s rich history and enduring beauty. It’s a place where legends are born and where wishes are whispered into the cascading water. Fendi, with its roots firmly planted in Rome, sought to capture the essence of this timeless monument, where love and tradition intertwine.
A Celebration of Art and Craftsmanship
Beyond the dazzling show, Fendi is celebrating its 90th anniversary with a grand exhibition titled “Fendi Roma: The Artisans of Dreams,” showcasing the brand’s creative journey. The exhibition, held in the Square Colosseum, Fendi’s headquarters in Rome, features a mesmerizing video installation and sketches by Lagerfeld of his most iconic creations. It’s a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship that have been the hallmarks of Fendi for generations.
Fendi’s 90th anniversary celebration is a testament to the enduring power of dreams and the magic that can be created when artistry, tradition, and innovation come together. It’s a celebration of Rome’s timeless beauty and the enduring legacy of Fendi.
