The Etro Men’s Fall 2026 collection, themed around wildlife, made a striking statement during its unveiling. Marco de Vincenzo, the creative force behind the brand, showcased this collection on Saturday night, complete with an eye-catching touch: a small rhinoceros head trophy pinned to his lapel. This unique accessory perfectly encapsulated the essence of the collection, which drew inspiration from the rich tapestry of animal motifs.
Attendees were captivated as they marveled at mannequins adorned with the heads of various birds and animals, prompting many to capture the moment on their phones. To elevate the whimsical atmosphere, a unicorn character was also included, further igniting the imagination of the audience. De Vincenzo's vision for this collection harkens back to a landmark campaign from Etro in 1997 that similarly intertwined human and animalistic elements. His aim was to strike a balance between classical elegance and playful creativity, all while celebrating the brand’s longstanding reputation for vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and sumptuous textures. "It’s truly about the intricate details and the rich history of the brand," he expressed passionately.
The collection featured luxurious paisley designs manifested in silky shirts and elegant dinner jackets, paired with sturdy tweed coats and blazers in warm tawny and rust tones. One standout piece even showcased feather-trimmed lapels, adding a quirky flair to the ensemble. Quirkiness was further amplified by leather biker jackets and evening blousons adorned with the faces of deer and owls, along with stylish sweaters.
Having spent over three years navigating his role at Etro, de Vincenzo is still immersing himself in the brand's heritage. He recounted a conversation with Kean Etro, the former men’s creative director and a member of the founding family, from whom he sought insight regarding the brand’s use of animal imagery. He learned that these motifs serve as a reflection on the duality of instinct versus intellect, a foundational concept in the brand's narrative.
De Vincenzo admired how the codes of the brand were established and found Kean’s approach to menswear both impressive and inspiring. In his perspective, Etro embodies Italian style infused with eccentricity, seamlessly blending elements of bourgeois and formal wear within a lifestyle context that embraces comfort—evident in the collection’s emphasis on robes and pajama-like pieces.
When asked to pick a favorite animal, de Vincenzo playfully insisted on his love for all creatures. However, he was momentarily stumped when questioned about which animal represented his Chinese zodiac sign. For those curious, he was born in the Year of the Horse, a sign typically associated with qualities such as energy, independence, and a spirit of adventure.
