For Spring-Summer 2025, Maximilian Davis explores Ferragamo's rich history with ballet, creating a collection that celebrates expressive elegance while bridging the brand's heritage with his personal narrative.
"I've always incorporated different historic eras in my work – eras which feel relatable to me and my heritage," says Davis. "At Ferragamo, I've sought out similarities – and the beauty of this brand is that there are so many different stories you can relate to. Every shoe has a meaning behind it. Every shoe has a story."
A Dance Through Time
Davis's inspiration stems from pivotal moments in Ferragamo's history: an intimate photograph of Salvatore Ferragamo fitting shoes for Katherine Dunham, the renowned dancer and anthropologist, and images of Rudolf Nureyev wearing custom-made Ferragamo ballerina shoes in the 1980s. "There were a lot of things I felt connected to," said Davis of Dunham.
The collection translates balletic elements into contemporary fashion. Practice uniforms inspire second-skin cashmere cotton pieces, layered and twisted with artful ease. Freedom of movement materializes through billowing silhouettes: opera coats and parachute dresses rendered in silk nylons, suede, and organza.
Nureyev's Influence and Caribbean Rhythms
Nureyev's iconic 1980s style informs the collection's more masculine elements, with louche, oversized tailoring and technical tracksuits. Davis also infuses the collection with touches of his Caribbean heritage, introducing frayed, stonewashed denim and organic forms that add a raw, contemporary edge to Ferragamo's refined aesthetic.
Craftsmanship and Innovation
True to Ferragamo's legacy, exquisite craftsmanship takes center stage. Intricately interlaced Gancini forms showcase the house's leather mastery, while a sustainable line of stonewashed denim jacquard and perforated satchel bags displays the Ferragamo monogram in innovative ways.
Footwear: A Modern Pointe
Footwear, a cornerstone of Ferragamo's identity, receives a balletic update. The angular Eva pump and a graphic sandal are reimagined with matte silk ribbons lacing up the calf. Fringed jacquard mules appear alongside geometric booties, a contemporary evolution of a 1940s archival style.
Accessories: Fluid Forms, Iconic Details
Davis introduces new bag silhouettes that balance structure and fluidity. A supple handbag gently collapses on itself, pierced with a metal Gancini. The iconic Hug bag is softened and reconstructed, while the new Foulard bag draws its shape from the drape of scarves.
Star-Studded Front Row
The Ferragamo Spring-Summer 2025 show drew an impressive group of celebrities and fashion insiders, underscoring the brand's enduring appeal and Davis's growing influence. Supermodel Joan Smalls graced the front row, her presence a testament to Ferragamo's status in the fashion world. Social media sensation Dixie D'Amelio brought a youthful energy to the proceedings, while Italian singing star Mahmood added a touch of musical glamour. Hollywood power couple Laura and Sam Worthington rounded out the star-studded audience, their attendance highlighting Ferragamo's cross-cultural appeal. The diverse mix of attendees reflected the collection's blend of classic elegance and contemporary edge, mirroring Davis's vision for the storied Italian house.
Final Bow
Maximilian Davis's Spring-Summer 2025 collection for Ferragamo is a testament to thoughtful design that honors heritage while pushing boundaries. By exploring the house's balletic connections through his unique perspective, Davis has created a wardrobe that celebrates freedom of movement, sensuality, and the enduring allure of dance.
As the collection takes its final bow, it's clear that under Davis's direction, Ferragamo is dancing to a thrilling new rhythm, one that respects its past while boldly stepping into the future.
