Mood board: Artistic director Alessandro Sartori continues to present his vision of the modern man, having rejoined the company last year following his time at the creative helm of Z Zegna from 2003 to 2011. For S/S 2018, the collection maintained the sports-lux mood. Smart bombers, canneté cuffed trousers and suiting came in century cashmere, pure mohair and flowing washed silks which can be scrunched up into a ball. The fashion message felt fluid and fresh. Standout was a tailored suit in mesh jacquard and the evolution of the leather technique, Pelle Tessuta, which weaves together thin strips of leather in a contemporary take on artisanal textile on tailoring and sneakers.
 
Scene setting: Guests entered through a large maze, clad with bright green astro turf, puzzling mirrors and digital screens showing artisans at work in the atelier. The show was held in a futurist forest in the historic courtyards of the University of Milan. ‘I couldn’t imagine a better place than this courtyard, where I often spent time in my youth reading, writing and sketching,’ Sartori said. 
 
Finishing touches: Twelve of the looks shown are available to order in selected worldwide boutiques. A selection of ready-to-wear and accessories can be made to order with additional handmade knotting, painting and embroidery. Mesh cut calfskin leather, suede intarsia, hand bleached denim – Zegna’s passion for the artisanal was on full display.