Stone Island: ‘Community as a Form of Research’

In an era where fashion increasingly intersects with culture, community, and identity, Stone Island once again seeks to push these intersections to the limits of their creative capacity with the unveiling of its Autumn/Winter 2024-2025 collection. This latest chapter in the "Community as a Form of Research" project, which began in January 2024, deepens the brand's exploration of its eclectic community—a diverse mosaic that spans the worlds of music, sport, art, and the vibrant spaces in between.

The collection’s narrative is brought to life through a series of portraits that encapsulate the essence of the Stone Island community. Recently reunited rock 'n' roll legend Liam Gallagher stands alongside DJ and producer Peggy Gou, who, in a groundbreaking moment, becomes the first female community member to be featured in a Stone Island campaign. Actor and curator Russell Tovey, and musician and skateboarder Sage Elsesser, also feature, embodying the brand’s ethos of inclusivity and universal appeal.

In a nod to tradition, Stone Island President Carlo Rivetti joins the portrait series, donning the seasonal interpretation of the iconic President’s Knit, a design first introduced in the AW '998-'999 collection. This homage to the brand’s heritage is a testament to the enduring legacy of Stone Island, where innovation and tradition seamlessly coexist.

The campaign’s cast is further enriched by the presence of creator Philippe Starck, artist Alexandre Diop, parkour athlete Davide Garzetti, photographer Liam MacRae, music producer Axl Beats, and graphic designer Yoshirotten. Each of these individuals contributes their unique perspectives, reinforcing the notion that the Stone Island community is a living, breathing entity defined by its members' diverse talents and backgrounds.

David Sims, with his signature intimate portraiture, captures the essence of these personalities against Stone Island’s iconic white backdrop. The creative direction by Ferdinando Verderi, paired with Max Pearmain’s meticulous styling, ensures that each portrait is a study in the harmonious blend of individuality and collective identity.

What truly sets this project apart is its intellectual foundation. Curated by cultural critic Hans Ulrich Obrist, the campaign is not just a visual feast but a cerebral exploration of what makes the Stone Island community so distinct. Obrist’s ten questions, posed to each of the twelve featured individuals, delve into the deeper narratives at play—probing the philosophies, inspirations, and motivations that define this unique collective.

The Autumn/Winter 2024-2025 collection by Stone Island is a testament to the power of community as a driving force in contemporary culture. By intertwining the personal with the universal, Stone Island continues to set the standard for what it means to be a truly modern brand—one that is as much about the people who wear it as it is about the clothes themselves.