Designer Steven Stokey-Daley’s S.S. Daley took center stage in Florence with a captivating show celebrating not only exquisite menswear but also a strategic investment from music icon Harry Styles. The event, hosted at Florence’s Palazzo Vecchio, seamlessly merged English boarding school aesthetics with summer romance, creating a standout moment at Pitti, the world’s largest menswear salon.
Set against the backdrop of Giorgio Vasari’s historic frescoes, the runway unfolded with a meticulous collection that showcased Daley’s expertise. The timely announcement of Harry Styles as a minority shareholder added another layer of significance to the evening, signifying a close partnership focused on the brand’s growth since its inception in 2020.
The collection artfully referenced Oxford University students of the past, offering an abstract interpretation of a dormitory. Daley’s craftsmanship shone through tailored silhouettes, soft shoulders, and precise cuts, emphasizing a polished look influenced by Italian craftsmanship.
As a Westminster University graduate and recipient of prestigious awards, Daley shared, «When I first came to Florence, I was impressed with the incredible tapestries, inspiring hand-sewn knits referencing these remarkable artworks.»
Standout pieces included knit ponchos, windowpane check trenches, pajama-stripe lounge suits, and a white shirt featuring a print of a steelhead salmon, inspired by E. M. Foster’s novel «A Room with a View.»
While Harry Styles was not physically present, the collaboration holds promise for S.S. Daley’s future. The terms of the investment were undisclosed, but both parties expressed a shared vision for the brand’s longevity and modern British heritage.
With accolades like the LVMH Prize and the British Fashion Council Foundation Award for Best Emerging Designer, Steven Stokey-Daley continues to shape the future of the fashion industry, offering brilliance and innovation in every creation.
