Alessandro Trincone made headlines in 2016 when his clothes – typically exaggerated in silhouette and crafted in chiffon or tulle – were featured on the album cover of Atlanta-based rapper Young Thug. The unexpected juxtaposition of the hyper-ruffled pants so wide they looked like a skirt on with the tough-image rapper had everyone asking: who is Alessandro Trincone?
The Italy native has previously showed on the VFiles runway, and received mentorship from 2018 CFDA Fashion Icon Naomi Campbell. He makes his New York Fashion Week: Men’s debut this Monday.
His collection may be categorized as menswear, but the designer prefers to describe the looks as genderless. The designs blur the line between femininity and masculinity by breaking down gender stereotypes. The collection addresses the culturally-relevant topic of sexual and gender identity and presents a vision for a brighter and more inclusive future.
We caught up with Trincone to discuss his brand philosophy, and to hear about his inspiration behind his highly personal new collection.
Can you tell us about your background and why you decided to pursue a career in fashion?
I grew up just outside of Naples, where I was drawn to fashion from a young age. I decided pursue my interests by studying the craft, so I attended Sapienza University of Rome for a degree in Costume and Fashion Studies. Then, I moved to Florence for the Master’s program at the European Institute of Design, and later I graduated again from Polimoda with a degree in fashion design. After that, I received a scholarship at the Osaka Bunka Fashion College in Japan where I found my authentic inspiration.
How would you describe your brand and fashion philosophy?
Growing up, I was used to people around me looking down upon my creativity with a strong sense of skepticism. Although it wasn’t easy, that hostility only made my artistic impulse stronger. All the prejudices directed towards me and my works during my youth endured are incorporated into my art. That process was vital for establishing the concept of “genderless” in my work. Using typically feminine fabrics like chiffon, silk and tulle on men became my eccentric and recognizable sign.
What sets your brand apart? What do you hope it brings to fashion?
My collection embodies the power within us. It celebrates life and people who find the courage to be themselves at any cost, breaching the tedious sexual standards and gender roles. It ultimately criticizes the bigotry in today’s society and the hypocrites who accept it.
What was the inspiration behind your upcoming NYFW: Men’s show?
People who lack sensitivity and empathy, too often, even unconsciously, cause some psychological effects. They influence us to the point that at times we end up obsessed. The verbal violence – and, in my own case, the physical one –has been in fact a painful turning point. A strong need of protection and comfort arose from that, pushing me firstly outward, looking for help in vain, but eventually reconnecting me with my most intimate and blissful dimension. “Avvolgimi” encloses a personal journey which begins by discovering ourselves and ends with the free and resolute choice of self-expression.
Where do you see your brand in five years? Are there any goals you hope to achieve?
I just hope to have my own brand established between New York and Paris. My goal is to see more people like me in the world; people that express themselves and what they are freely.
