Reality Meets Illusion on Pierre-Louis Mascia’s Runway
Once again, theatrical flair and a dreamlike atmosphere reigned supreme on Pierre-Louis Mascia’s runway. For the Spring-Summer 2026 collection, the designer drew inspiration from Les Enfants du Paradis (1945), Marcel Carné’s cinematic masterpiece and cornerstone of French poetic realism. Echoes of it appear in the draped silhouettes in sumptuous fabrics, as if unearthed from some forgotten attic. Of course silk remains the house’ material of choice—this season explored through 18 new original prints, all crafted in collaboration with Achille Pinto. Styling is Mascia’s true ace: his gift for layering contrasting motifs and colours with a signature ease, instantly recognisable yet ever evolving. Soft, enveloping dresses alternate with tailored suits, relaxed shirts and pyjama-inspired shorts. Injecting a modern edge into this mix of elegance and nonchalance, the designer wove in elements of street luxury. The brand’s everyday kaleidoscope extended into featherlight bombers and trenches, as well as jeans with trompe-l’œil effects that added just the right dose of surrealism.
Text: Giuliano Deidda
Photos: Niccolò Campita
