Marco Capaldo, the visionary behind 16Arlington, is redefining the boundaries of fashion presentations. Moving away from traditional runway shows, Capaldo chose an intimate dinner at London’s Almine Rech gallery for his latest collection debut. This event not only showcased his A/W 2025 collection but also highlighted the brand's evolution from glamorous seduction to a playful yet sophisticated aesthetic. Influenced by 1980s power dressing and Italian heritage, Capaldo's approach blends artistry with community, creating memorable experiences that resonate deeply with his audience.
A New Era of Presentation: From Runway to Dinner Table
Capaldo's decision to shift from conventional runway shows to an exclusive dinner reflects his desire to create lasting memories. The event, held at the prestigious Almine Rech gallery, brought together close friends and collaborators, emphasizing the importance of communal dining in Italian culture. This unconventional format allowed guests to engage more personally with the collection, fostering a deeper connection between the brand and its audience. Capaldo believes that this method of presentation captures the essence of 16Arlington—where fashion meets art and community.
The evening was carefully curated to ensure a unique experience. Guests enjoyed a 1980s-inspired menu, complete with prawn cocktail, meatloaf, and a decadent brown butter cake. The atmosphere was both nostalgic and forward-looking, mirroring Capaldo's design philosophy. By breaking free from the rigid structure of traditional fashion shows, Capaldo has opened up new possibilities for how collections can be presented. His innovative approach not only sets 16Arlington apart but also aligns with the brand's commitment to creating unforgettable moments. The transformation of the gallery into a one-night-only exhibition further enhanced the event, showcasing the A/W 2025 collection through large-scale prints by photographer Ethan James Green. This collaboration added another layer of storytelling, highlighting the intersection of fashion and visual arts.
Artistic Collaboration: Capturing Haunting Glamour
The A/W 2025 collection is a testament to Capaldo's artistic vision, drawing inspiration from iconic films like David Lynch's Blue Velvet and Wim Wenders' Paris, Texas. Collaborating with photographer Ethan James Green, Capaldo sought to capture a surreal beauty that blurs the line between dream and reality. Green's raw and intimate portraits, featuring models Caroline Trentini and Yasmin Wijnaldum, perfectly encapsulate the haunting glamour of the collection. The oversized silhouettes and bold color palette pay homage to the 1980s while maintaining a modern twist, reflecting 16Arlington's signature style.
Capaldo's designs are characterized by exaggerated shapes softened into wearable pieces, combining high fashion with everyday elegance. The collection features voluminous skirts, mini-dresses adorned with sequins, and a new logo belt that adds a touch of hedonism. These elements celebrate the past while embracing the present, creating a harmonious blend of nostalgia and innovation. The inspiration behind the collection stems from characters portrayed by Nastassja Kinski and Isabella Rossellini, embodying a quiet intensity and vulnerability that resonates with the brand's ethos. Capaldo's aim is to empower the wearer, allowing them to express their individuality through clothing that feels both luxurious and accessible. The A/W 2025 collection marks a significant milestone for 16Arlington, showcasing the brand's growth and artistic maturity. As fashion trends lean towards minimalism, Capaldo's bold and vibrant approach stands out, turning up the volume on glamour and intellect.