Moncler Genius was started by Moncler in 2018 as a way of breaking the rules of the industry. The ‘one house, different voices’ ethos saw both established and emerging designers and brands lending their vision of what Moncler could be. Each collection was then progressively dropped every month.
The only way forward for Moncler Genius was either to ramp up on the number of collaborations or turn it on its head once again. Moncler chose the latter, announcing a new line-up of Moncler Genius 2023 at London Fashion Week.
Instead of restricting its collaborations within the realm of fashion, Moncler Genius’ latest The Art of Genius presentation broadens the reach with artists, musicians, and brands—reaching communities spanning music, design, art, entertainment and sport.
Here’s what to expect from Moncler Genius 2023 from the co-creators themselves.
The Art of Dreaming by Alicia Keys
“The Art of Dreaming is that pure creativity that inspires you to keep reaching higher, no matter what life throws at you.”
Together with musicians Little Simz, and Cleo Sol, Alicia Keys performed at The Art of Genius while debuting her first Moncler x Alicia Keys collection. In shiny, patent-like hues, the collection is described as Keys to be true to her New York roots with 1990s streetwear influences. The Moncler x Alicia Keys collection will also be the first of the Moncler Genius 2023 to drop, scheduled for March 2023.
The Art of Terrain by Pharrell Williams
“The Art of Terrain is taking in the world around you and getting inspired to create something beautiful. If you allow yourself to be open, you can find inspiration in almost anything.”
The newly appointed Louis Vuitton men’s creative director interpreted glamping for Moncler x Pharrell Williams. Pieces are designed to be functional and modular, with detachable pockets and detachable sleeves, zippers that turn trousers into shorts as well as a picnic blanket that doubles as a cape.
The Art of Imagination by Mercedes-Benz
“The Mercedes-Benz Art Piece, titled ‘PROJECT MONDO G’, was staged in an imaginary new universe. Displayed on a pedestal, the monolithic art piece was surrounded by an otherworldly landscape, fit for the co-creation that merged the iconic Mercedes-Benz off-roader G-Class and the luxurious puffer jacket of Moncler. The setting immersed viewers into the main themes of outdoor durability and limitless opportunities for discovery.”
While the futuristic interpretation of the artistic collaboration between Moncler and Mercedes-Benz was impressive, it was but a vehicle for what’s to come. Both parties have yet to unveil what the actual Moncler x Mercedes-Benz collection would look like and what it would entail.
The Art of Lightness by Palm Angels
“The Art of Lightness is related to the infinite possibilities we have inside and outside ourselves. My intention was to create an immersive experience where foam represents a metaphor of the snow, which at the same time refers to a deep sense of peace. The result is a celebration of the individual imagination—a space that can be whatever you want it to be, where freedom and self-expression are enhanced at the utmost.”
Making a return to Moncler Genius, Francesco Ragazzi of Palm Angels continued his love for vintage and Americana for Moncler x Palm Angels. The styling was haphazard, capturing a thrift spirit combined with a post-preppy aesthetic.
The Art of Love by FRGMT
“The Art of Love is familiar to us all, but also exceptionally diverse. There are many kinds of ‘love’—many different ways of showing love to others. I hope this installation contributes to spreading love to the world in a unique way.”
Hiroshi Fujiwara of FRGMT was part of the founding crop of collaborators when Moncler Genius was first announced, and has been part of every Moncler Genius iteration since. For the latest Moncler x FRGMT collection, houndstooth and florals are set to be the key defining patterns.
The Art of Exploration by adidas Originals
“The Art of Exploration is fundamentally about fearlessly stepping into the unknown. Our collection takes on contemporary frontiers—from the city streets to the summit peaks—for a new context. The immersive event is an extension of this vision—toying with the senses in order to confront guests with an experience that is inspirational and outside of the norm.”
Photo: Moncler.
The Art of Elements by Salehe Bembury
“The Art of Elements is an exploration of palette, shape, and utility. From extensive time spent in the wilderness, I have developed a deep appreciation for nature and the elements that come with it. The Art of Elements is an exploration of the spectrum of energy that these elements deliver.”
The footwear designer—known for collaborations with brands the likes of Crocs and New Balance—made his first ready-to-wear debut with Moncler x Salehe Bembury. The collection stays true to Bembury’s penchant for earth tones with a focus on urban outdoor gear. And of course, Bembury has also reworked Moncler’s Tailgrip sneaker as part of the collection.
The Art of All by Roc Nation By JAY-Z
“The Art of All is the journey, it is the everyday, it is waking up and using your voice. Genius is everywhere.”
The Moncler x Roc Nation by JAY-Z collection is slated to be a rather concise one. In tones of white, khaki, black as well as the inclusion of bright orange, the collection is conceptualised as individual pieces that work well together.
The Art of Design by Rick Owens
“The Art of Design takes the aesthetic bubble concept of our last collection with Moncler further: to a personalised, quietly considered, and introspective bubble as a customized sleeping pod—with clothing to match.”
True to form, the Moncler + Rick Owens capsule collection is set to feature elongated silhouettes and quilting centred around a palette of black and tie-dyed yellow. Pieces include flight jackets, puffers, extra-long coats, skirts, shorts and tops—all with that beloved Rick Owens treatment.
