Celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, Fendi has evolved from an iconic luxury house to a symbol of modern elegance for today’s “dream girls.” While the brand has a rich history dating back to its founders Edoardo and Adele Casagrande Fendi, it was the early 2000s that solidified its place in the pop culture lexicon. The brand’s legacy was shaped by unforgettable moments in Sex and the City and The Royal Tenenbaums, both of which immortalized Fendi’s baguette bags and luxurious fur coats. Fast-forward to today, and Fendi continues to captivate fashion-forward women across generations, thanks to creative director Silvia Venturini Fendi, the granddaughter of the house’s founders.
At Milan Fashion Week, the Fall 2025 collection was a fitting tribute to Fendi’s centennial. Silvia Venturini Fendi revisited Italian archetypes — the housewives in quilted housecoats, the bombshells in leopard prints, and the chic office workers in pastel suits. But these clothes weren’t just about nostalgia; they were imbued with modern-day ease and practicality, combining luxury with functionality. Deep pockets in dusty pink coats for smartphones, dainty bags with wider straps for comfort, and sheer lace tops paired with cool bras highlighted the collection’s versatility. Fendi’s latest offerings are a blend of glamour, elegance, and consideration, making them not just beautiful but wearable for the everyday woman.
Notably, the show featured a range of models from different generations, from the 75-year-old icon Penelope Tree to 27-year-old Gabriette, demonstrating that Fendi is a brand for all ages. In fact, Lulu Tenney, the model who opened the Fall 2025 show in a shearling version of the iconic Fendi fur coat, was born in the same year The Royal Tenenbaums debuted. The reference to Fendi’s rich cinematic history was poignant, further cementing the house’s cultural relevance and timeless appeal.
Fendi’s deep connection to the past was also present in the show’s jewelry, designed by Delfina Delettrez Fendi, Silvia’s daughter. The pieces, made of gold-bobbed necklaces and earrings, evoked playful nostalgia for childhood memories, particularly recalling the pasta from the Play-Doh Spaghetti Factory.
As for Fendi’s future, there has been a lot of speculation about who will fill the creative director role after Kim Jones left the brand in October. However, it seems that Silvia and Delfina Fendi’s grounded, no-nonsense approach to fashion—embodying quiet confidence rather than chaos—might be the secret to their lasting success. Their work honors the women who helped make Fendi the powerhouse it is today, but they also understand the significance of women who stay calm and carry the most gorgeous bags possible.
And as for that iconic coat? It still rules.
