Max Mara has once again merged heritage and innovation with its Resort 2026 collection, unveiled on June 17, 2025, at the grand Reggia di Caserta near Naples. Titled Venere Vesuviana, the show was a tribute to the brand’s origins in 1951 and the evocative charm of southern Italy. Creative Director Ian Griffiths curated a collection that blends nostalgia, cultural richness, and modern sophistication.
Drawing inspiration from the golden age of Italian cinema, Griffiths infused the collection with references to screen legends like Sophia Loren and Silvana Mangano. Their influence was evident in the feminine yet empowered silhouettes—especially the high-waisted shorts nodding to Mangano’s iconic performance in Riso Amaro.
A key element of the collection was the collaboration with the legendary Neapolitan tie-maker E. Marinella. Together, they revived archival cravat patterns from 1951, integrating them into a variety of pieces, from flowing silk pajamas to oversized cashmere knits. The effect was a harmonious balance of masculine detail and feminine drape, showcasing Max Mara’s ability to refine traditional elements for the contemporary woman.
The runway featured a diverse array of garments: printed silk sets, candy-striped shirting, diamond-pocket skirts, and fluid slip dresses stood out as highlights. Practicality was subtly woven throughout the designs—Bardot necklines, dresses with functional pockets, and sharply tailored shorts underscored the brand’s emphasis on wearable luxury. Of course, Max Mara’s iconic outerwear had its moment too, updated in creamy cashmere with elegant shawl collars and exaggerated patch pockets, maintaining its timeless appeal.
Set in the regal halls of the Reggia di Caserta—a UNESCO World Heritage site—the show was more than a fashion presentation; it was a celebration of Italian culture and femininity. The ornate venue’s classical beauty elevated the collection’s narrative of transformation and passion, two themes that have long been central to the Max Mara brand.
Among the distinguished attendees were Gwyneth Paltrow and Sharon Stone, further solidifying the event’s stature on the global fashion calendar. The celebrity presence underscored Max Mara’s continued relevance and reach, bridging continents and generations through its signature elegance.
In a post-show statement, Griffiths remarked, “I wanted to come to Naples to show a place where, I think, this idea of Italian style really started.” His words encapsulate the essence of the collection: a modern homage to the roots of Italian elegance, where every piece tells a story of resilience, beauty, and tradition reimagined.
Fashion critics and industry insiders have lauded the Resort 2026 line for its sophisticated aesthetic and thoughtful cultural references. As the fashion world looks ahead, Max Mara’s latest offering sets a formidable benchmark, proving that when heritage meets vision, the result is nothing short of timeless.
