The Suit behind the Scene

In Ermenegildo Zegna’s insightful film A Rose Reborn, the pursuit for knowledge, belief and ultimately a better future is depicted by Korean director Park Chan-wook through the growth of the role Stephan.  Head of Design at Ermenegildo Zegna Stefano Pilati specially created the wardrobe for the two main characters from his Couture collection.  The wardrobe, not only showcasing the brand’s fashion forwardness catering to the New Leadership Generation, is indeed an integral part of the plot authenticating the director’s vision and contributing to luring the audience into the story. 

A gifted young entrepreneur seeking help at the beginning, Stephan appears in casual wear staying in his small world.  Made up his mind to see Mr Lu, he chooses an impeccable Zegna suit to begin his journey.  He adopts a more elegant look and this particular “costume” marks the start of his growing path to a new leader.

Along his way looking for knowledge, Stephan is guided by Mr Lu and requested to exchange jacket.  He asks if the jackets are the same.  Not directly answered, Mr Lu leads him to think and find the fact by himself, examining the Asian concept of looking inward for answers.  At the end, upon the completion of sharing clothes, Stephan fully changes into couture.  It is a glorious moment signifying a new man is born.  The wardrobe continues to indicate his change.

The two gentlemen’s interaction introduces the core of the “Broken Suit” concept.  The modern men’s luxury wear has been reinterpreted according to Pilati’s idea that the height of chic is to pair the jacket of one suit with the pants from another.  These two pieces in harmonious colours are mixed and matched with various fabrics, texture and patterns.  This is an innovative way; yet still stylish, formal and classic, to create a different suit with one’s own uniqueness.  The combination of those seemingly “mismatches” indeed brings out unlimited varieties.

The broken suit, either in the film or reality, usually comes in different fabrics or patterns.  The harmony created by this pioneering mix and match of luxury menswear modernizes the wardrobe.  This luxurious element of style allows the gentlemen to freely express themselves and their own taste.  This is a new way of formal dressing that is impeccably fashionable for those wish to emphasize their personalities in a visible and contemporary manner.