The Row: Uncompromising Minimalism
If De Sarno’s Gucci is about bringing heritage back to the everyday, The Row is what happens when the everyday is elevated to an art form. Founded by Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen, the brand is the purist’s choice for a reason. It operates on a principle
of quiet power, where the luxury is felt in the weight of the cashmere, the perfect drape of a coat, and the architectural precision of its tailoring. The Row shares Gucci's new focus on foundational, forever pieces, but strips it back even further. There are no logos and minimal hardware, forcing the focus onto silhouette and sublime fabrication. For those who admire the clean lines and investment-piece mentality of De Sarno’s vision, The Row is its sophisticated, powerful conclusion.
Khaite: Sensual New York Edge
Where De Sarno’s Gucci offers a sensual Italian perspective, Khaite delivers the New York equivalent. Founded by Catherine Holstein, Khaite has perfected the art of the elevated essential, blending toughness with softness and structure with fluidity. Think of the perfect leather jacket, a cashmere knit that feels both cozy and revealing, or denim that’s impeccably cut. Like De Sarno, Holstein is a master of creating pieces that feel special without being overtly trendy. The brand speaks to a modern woman who values strength and femininity equally, often in the same garment. If you’re drawn to the wearable desire in Gucci’s latest collections, Khaite offers a wardrobe of similarly powerful, yet distinctly American, staples.
Jil Sander: The Purity of Form
Long before 'quiet luxury' became a buzzword, there was Jil Sander. The brand has been the standard-bearer for rigorous minimalism for decades. Under creative directors Lucie and Luke Meier, the house continues to explore a sophisticated and often emotional form of modernism. The connection to De Sarno’s Gucci lies in a shared respect for clean lines, sophisticated color palettes, and an intellectual approach to what makes a garment essential. While Gucci’s new look is imbued with a certain sensuality, Jil Sander’s is more cerebral and serene. It’s fashion for those who appreciate sculptural silhouettes, innovative materials, and a design purity that feels both timeless and forward-thinking.
Bottega Veneta: A Masterclass in Craft
It’s impossible to talk about the new mood in Italian luxury without mentioning Bottega Veneta. Under Matthieu Blazy, the house has become a powerhouse of 'craft in motion.' Blazy, who once worked with De Sarno, shares a profound respect for artisanal excellence and creating clothes that feel spectacular in an everyday context. Remember the 'denim' pants from his debut that were actually printed leather? That’s the ethos. While Bottega Veneta may have a more experimental and textural approach, the core philosophy aligns with De Sarno's: making exquisitely crafted items you want to live your life in. It’s a brand for those who love Gucci’s renewed focus on quality but crave an extra layer of artistic invention.
Toteme: The Modern Uniform
Founded by Elin Kling and Karl Lindman, Stockholm-based Toteme has perfected the concept of a modern, curated uniform. The brand is built on signature pieces—a viral scarf-jacket, perfectly cut trousers, a striped knit—that are designed to be worn on repeat. Like De Sarno’s Gucci, Toteme ignores fleeting trends in favor of creating a distinct, recognizable aesthetic that is both practical and incredibly chic. Its focus is on sharp, pragmatic silhouettes and a neutral palette that allows for endless versatility. If the appeal of the new Gucci is having a clear, go-to look, Toteme offers a masterclass in how to build that wardrobe piece by considered piece.
Ferragamo: A Renaissance in Color and Form
Under the creative direction of Maximilian Davis, Ferragamo is experiencing its own vibrant renaissance. Davis, like De Sarno, has a talent for taking a storied Italian house and injecting it with a sharp, modern, and undeniably sexy energy. His collections are defined by slick tailoring, a bold use of color—including a signature fiery red—and an elegant precision. There’s a shared sensibility in how both designers are reinterpreting their respective archives for a contemporary audience, creating pieces that feel both classic and urgently new. For those captivated by the rich 'Ancora' red at Gucci, Ferragamo offers a compelling and equally colorful dialogue on modern Italian glamour.
