With the occasion of the newest written work of Alessandro Michele La Vita Delle forme – la filosofia del reincanto, co written alongside Emanuele Coccia, the creative director of Valentino comes to IULM to have a discuss the main subjects of the book. The other speakers present were the professors Sofia Gnoli, Vincenzo Trione, and Annamaria Esposito, as moderator.

Concepts the book sheds light on…

Alessandro Michele talks about the effects the everchanging digital landscape has on the fashion industry and creativity as a whole. He points out the tendency we have to use what he calls citation (citazione in italian) which refers to the effects of constant exposure to ideas shared in the online space. Moreover, since Michele has been in the field this has been a prominent factor in his work. Additionally, the rapid technological development makes fashion cycles more time-sensitive. Therefore fixed events (such as fashion shows) which he perceives as rituals are impacted.

Through the pages, fashion is presented as the only form of (artistic) self expression one engages in daily through the conscious act of dressing oneself. There is a comparison to other art forms, such as painting and film, which can easily not make part of our routine.

Behind the Alessandro Michele’s profession and person

During this open discussion the designer also shares details on the manner in which he does his work. He admits to not being a sewing master which may come as a surprise. However, Michele points out to the fact that previously designers and seamstresses were to separate professions as is not currently the case. What struck me was the simple yet put together style of his. He shares that, to him, wearing jeans and a white T-shirt is something he would rather prefer. During this appearance he was wearing light wash jeans and a dark green coat, denoting simplicity. This and his way of speaking, talking about his creative visions being scrutinised by the media reflect his confidence in himself as a person and creative.

What sparks creativity, a cumulus of all inspiration sources or one in particular?

This question I asked him is an extension of my curiosity behind what sparks creativity. Undoubtedly, this overlaps with the subject of this book, the reason for which I was particularly interested to know his point of view. And while he suggested that he disagrees with the idea of hierarchy in this sense. This being said, he suggests that people-watching is an important element of his creative process, which I find reflects the avant-garde quality of his work.

To conclude, Alessandro Michele and Emanuele Coccia’s book is presented as a philosophical reflection of the act of wearing clothes, which is subject to constant changes.