Ferragamo Resort 2024

Maximilian Davis, the creative director of Ferragamo, finds inspiration in the intricate dynamics of tight-knit families. Coming from a Trinidadian-Jamaican background and now working for the extended Ferragamo family, he deeply resonates with the concept of familial connections. During a showroom appointment, Davis explained his fascination with Italian families and their clothing, envisioning pieces that could be passed down through generations.

For the resort collection, Davis showcased slim and straight-cut tailoring as well as nip-waisted and sculpted silhouettes, all fashioned from compact fabrics. One notable outerwear piece was a powerful yet hourglass-shaped black city coat with Davis’ signature off-kilter buttoning. Despite its smooth and velvety texture, the coat was actually crafted from flocked denim. As with other key items in the collection, it was designed for both genders.

A key aspect of the designer’s approach is elevating sportswear to a more refined status. An excellent example was a classic flight jacket reimagined with a round, mid-century couture-inspired volume. Paired with a midi A-line skirt, it offered a fresh take on the traditional skirt suit. The sensuous touch that Davis often infuses into clean and linear designs was highlighted by the shape-holding yet supple nubuck leather in a delicate caramel hue.

Davis presented a compelling case for younger members of the family to embrace Ferragamo’s wardrobe by offering cocoon-shaped hoodies and batwing-sleeve cropped blousons. Paired with ultra-short shorts in natté wool, these ensembles hinted at provocation while showcasing a luxurious texture.

What sets Davis apart is his ability to infuse subtly “perverse undertones,” as he describes them, into his collections. In this presentation, some looks were complemented by shiny black patent leather stretch boots with a curved high heel, lending a fetishistic edge. “In every family, there are taboos,” he remarked, and his designs reflect this undeniable truth.