Moschino Debuts New Era Under Rizzo and Messina with Unconventional Runway Show

MILAN – Moschino presented its latest collection on the roof of the Unipol Dome, marking a significant shift under the creative direction of Simone Rizzo and Loris Messina, who took the helm in June after departing their own brand, Sunnei. The show featured a unique format: everyday people walking the runway alongside Moschino models, creating a striking contrast of real life and vibrant, satirical fashion.

A Refreshing Departure from Tradition

Former Moschino CEO Marco Gobbetti, now on the board of parent company Aeffe, praised the show as “wonderful and very refreshing,” noting that it aligns with the visionary spirit of the brand’s founder, Franco Moschino. Gobbetti believes Moschino has the potential to be “more than just a brand that makes garments,” serving as a “cultural platform for ideas.”

Looking Forward, Not Back

Rizzo and Messina have stated their intention to forge a “Moschino of the future,” moving away from overt references to the brand’s extensive archive and previous designers like Rossella Jardini, Jeremy Scott, and Adrian Appiolaza. Their focus is on establishing a new creative identity.

Bold Design and Unconventional Production

The collection showcased a bold use of color and exaggerated proportions, including panniers and striking prints. Notably, the show was produced without a stylist, an unusual choice for a luxury house. The runway featured vibrant primary colors, exaggerated silhouettes like padded bottoms, and distinctive details such as fringing on Bermuda shorts. The show’s concept, like their previous work at Sunnei, incorporated paradoxical elements, but remained grounded in a sense of reality.