A Zegna family closet, a place where pieces of memory are kept, where everything worth remembering is gathered

A Zegna family closet, a place where pieces of memory are kept, where everything worth remembering is gathered

2026.01.16 MAIN FASHION

Text Lucrezia Sgualdino

Ermenegildo Zegna tells the story of a man made of fragments, where objects from the past, carefully preserved, become carriers of stories and emotions. The Winter 26 collection offers an innovative look into the past. A closet that opens and tells a story of pure beauty.

Everything that has been returns. Objects, thoughts, emotions, and sensations are brought to life through a tribute to tradition. Ermenegildo Zegna’s ongoing pursuit is carried forward today not only by the Maison itself but also by the creative vision of Alessandro Sartori. The result is an eternal style—a homage to the brand’s insights, its history, and its values. The Winter 26 collection tells the story of a man mindful of the wardrobe of the past, eager to experiment with pieces meant to be passed down. Every item is designed to endure over time, with the intention of telling a story of elegant, classic refinement. Alessandro Sartori’s modern touch blends seamlessly with elements of timeless style. And it is here that the wardrobe of wonders opens, inviting us all to step into the world of Zegna—made of art, passion, tradition, craftsmanship, places, and people.

The show is set in an atmosphere that exudes warmth, intimacy, and presence. A lived-in room, with wood paneling, open doors and full closets, wallpaper, and rugs in warm hues. The models move through this seemingly magical space, dressing and undressing as if in a real home. From here, the entire collection envisioned by Creative Director Alessandro Sartori comes to life. The colours start out simple: brown, grey, blue, beige, before bolder shades appear, such as olive green, burnt orange, mustard, bright yellow, and bluette. Just as the tones of the collection evolve, so do the materials: classic wool becomes shearling, hammered leather turns into suede, knitwear reveals its luxurious yarns, and denim gives way to velvet. Some combinations reference loungewear: jackets with long rounded lapels are cinched at the waist, dress lines are soft and warm; coats lengthen, suits are deconstructed with modern tailoring. Certain pieces nod to a more sporty wardrobe: the short cuts of outerwear echo bomber jackets with large patch pockets and contrasting collars, while leather biker jackets become padded and quilted. Volumes are generally generous and ample. Silhouettes start from high collars or glossy silk scarves emerging from jacket necklines, while soft knitwear is styled with high-waisted trousers.

We have rewritten all the classics in today’s language, in pieces where durability is the primary feature. The family wardrobe passes down these languages, which is why I conceived the collection with the awareness that the Zegna client doesn’t wear clothes for just one season, but collects them.”

—Alessandro Sartori

The Zegna man has a chic and elegant appearance, with a youthful character that revisits the spirit of times past. The collection’s styling is modern and considered: soft leather bags are carried under the arm, and trousers fall fluidly over colorful shoes. Elements and combinations that make the collection appealing to a social and historical moment that is fast-moving and constantly evolving. The woman also makes an appearance in the Winter 26 collection. A woman who borrows pieces from the men’s wardrobe, who wants to feel comfortable in every garment she wears, with lines that are more or less linear and lengths that are more or less bold. A woman attentive to product quality, who wants to fall in love with a world as authentic and sincere as that of Ermenegildo Zegna and Alessandro Sartori. Once again, the collection places the brand’s signature characteristics at its core, portraying the man with his inherent charm and authenticity.