By Helen Siwak
An Interview with Niccolò Ricci
With the “A Driving Force” Fall/Winter Collection 2018 carefully bundled and heading for Stefano Ricci boutiques worldwide, CEO Niccolò Ricci stopped in Vancouver for a quick visit at the Alberni Street location that bears his father’s name. A small window of time allowed me a petite visite to learn more about the pieces that would be soon adorning the eagle-headed mannequins in the boutiques’ storefront windows.
Is the “Stefano Ricci man” looking beyond the classics for garments to fit all aspects of his lifestyle?
Since we launched our sportswear collection, we encountered a growing interest from our clients. This includes the younger clients, of course, but also leaders that like paying more attention to their leisure time. In particular, during the last seasons, we focused on the dynamic man.
I am often traveling and, in particular, it’s on these trips that I appreciate the comfort of our products. With deconstructed and soft jackets, the finishing of the leather against the skin reminds me that, more than having an impeccable look, it’s important to feel comfortable and at ease. It’s better to feel good rather than to look good.
The Spring/Summer 2018 sunglasses were spectacular. What accessories can we expect for Fall/Winter?
This is an additional step in the company’s growth. We are already present in the market with our eyewear, but we have identified technological solutions that express that little bit of “something more” that we are always seeking in our constant search for perfection.
The crocodile belts are embellished by a new line of buckles that were designed by my father Stefano, feature our unmistakable eagle head, and include the use of diamonds.
You speak passionately about your love of
Florence. What other cities do you have love affairs with? Is Vancouver on that list?
At Stefano Ricci, we are proud to wear the Italian flag on our shoulders and the Florentine lily in our hearts. However, there are other international cities that I love, including Hong Kong, where we recently opened a monobrand to celebrate the 25th anniversary of our presence in China. (I remember that our very first boutique was inaugurated in 1993 in Shanghai, where today, we have our Shanghai Mansion). Los Angeles [is another favourite], where, not by chance, we have one of the most important flagship stores in the world on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills.
The thing I immediately liked about Vancouver was the energy that this city emanates. There is a desire for action and an intensive investment that follows a bright vision. I think that in the next few years, Vancouver will affirm itself as one of the top cities in the world.
Since the beginning of 2018, ultra-luxury brand Stefano Ricci has launched men’s wear boutiques in Phnom Penh, Hong Kong, Dubai (a third boutique) and Tbilisi. With another five slated (Sanya, Miami, New Delhi, Macau and Sochi), it appears that the world’s thirst for the ultimate in luxury apparel transcends borders.
www.stefanoricci.com n
Unveiling at the PARQ