Ermenegildo Zegna: An Enduring Passion for Fabrics, Innovation, Quality, and Style

Image of Ermenegildo Zegna: An Enduring Passion for Fabrics, Innovation, Quality, and Style
Author(s): 
Release Date: 
October 25, 2010
Publisher/Imprint: 
Skira
Pages: 
352
Reviewed by: 

In order to celebrate its 100 years in business, the Zegna family commissioned this book. Ermenegildo Zegna: An Enduring Passion for Fabrics, Innovation, Quality, and Style retells the story of the dynastic rise of the Zegna clan from its humble beginning to its present conglomerate that includes wool mills, several divisions of clothing and sportswear, as well as the foundation that handles the charitable and cultural patronages as well as the ecologically friendly projects.

The written history segment of this paean would have benefited greatly had it been written in a less affected tone, as the story and its content provide plenty of lessons to be learned and a family to be greatly admired. The particular style of the telling results in a very obtuse and convoluted version of a simple tale of a family that had a dream and through hard work and great passion created an empire over its 100-year history.

Besides the obvious elements of the family’s success, there is a wonderful chapter of the book devoted to the entire process of how a suit is made. There is no stone left unturned as the process begins with how and where the raw material is found for the fabrics, to how the fabric is then woven, and then through the entire manufacturing process. Even the seasoned clotheshorse will likely be fascinated and enlightened.

The physical elements of this work are nothing short of superb, from the paper it is printed on to the execution and reproduction of the photography as well as its overall presentation—making this a coffee table book to treasure.

Another key element in the telling of this tale is a segment where the Zegna family gives credit to the literal “architects” of their empire. Enter Peter Marino who is responsible for what the world sees as the “retail face” of Zegna. Each store worldwide is created with the unified vision of Mr. Marino and the Zegna family, and then there is an array of architects who conceived the factories of the Zegna empire as well as the Zegna Museum—all of it exquisitely documented within the covers of this volume.

Even if one is to overlook the verbiage and just peruse the photographs, there is plenty here about the Zegna family to enthrall and entertain.