As accomplished as they come, the now-creative director of Tod’s, Alessandra Facchinetti is one of fashion’s biggest unsung heroes. Here, we delve into her world…
1. She spent seven years under Miuccia Prada. “Undoubtedly my first role at Miu Miu is impossible to forget because I truly learned everything there – my whole trade, from dealing with suppliers to researching fabrics.”
2. …and was the heir to Tom Ford at Gucci. “With Gucci I was honoured; it was a really intense experience and the basis of my professional growth.”
3. She then replaced Valentino on his retirement. “Every experience in my career has been very different but very precious for both my personal and professional life. The pressure is always there but it’s self-inflicted. Today it’s the desire to create that keeps me going. I always try to balance the Tod’s DNA with my feminine touch, and I love emphasising the classics by putting a twist on them. To simplify, and produce items that will make you happy for a long time rather than something in your closet which you regret.”
4. She’s the daughter of a rock star… her dad being Roby Facchinetti, the lead singer of ultra-successful Italian band Pooh. “My memories growing up are very much linked to music but with the years I’ve turned that influence into that of Italian modern art. I adore it and it forms the basis of my collections.”
5. And she designs every catwalk set as well as the ready-to-wear and accessories. “The minute I start designing the collection, I start designing the set performance as well. They have to link together and be coherent. There’s always a fil rouge binding together the different ingredients of a season; for spring it was the spirit and architecture of famous Italian gardens.”
Shoes Dhs2,250
Shoes Dhs3,140
Bag Dhs10,330
Bag Dhs5,230
Cuff Dhs2,520
Sunglasses POA
Tod’s accessories available at The Mall of the Emirates
