Photo: Courtesy of ERL
In the five years since launching ERL, Eli Russell Linnetz has ticked off most of the fashion world’s markers of success. CFDA Emerging Designer Award? Working with Kim Jones? Let A$AP Rocky see the Met Gala? Check, check, check. One thing he hasn’t done so far is hold his own fashion show, but publishes his in-person appointments with curated zine magazines and Dover Street Market’s 14 ERL Collection – 14 Paris Showroom. But that all changed in June 14 when Russell Linnetz will be guest designer at Pitti Uomo.
“This is an opportunity like this to be at the center of the Renaissance and really seek to bring something new by staying true to it,” Russell Linnetz said in his Venice-based Beach’s headquarters said. The vision, he continued, was “surfer boys flooding the streets of Florence”. But he’s planning more than just the transformative outfits he’s known for his skateboard, surf and snow styles. The invitation says “California Fashion Made in Italy,” and in addition to an increased emphasis on tailoring (a category he’s become increasingly interested in since attending the Dior Men Experience last year), there will be authentic California fashion in the form of local artisans in Los Angeles Work in progress. “Everything will be totally overdone,” he promises. Plus: keep an eye out for ERL eyewear and footwear, which will debut at Pitti. Both lines will be sold alongside ERL apparel on the brand’s new e-commerce site, which will be updated during the show.
“Eli invents and builds worlds that are nourished by the energy of sunny California. With elegance and joy, he blends art and fashion, bringing the inevitable street Culture meets luxury sportswear. All this with a clear media instinct, also evident in his recent collaborations with global brands and music stars,” said Lapo Cianchi, Director of Communications and Special Events, Pitti Immagine. “We are sure that his presence at Pitti Uomo will greatly energize the fashion world.”
First Florence, then the world? Russell Linnetz dismisses questions about stage fright for beginners. “I felt like I needed a bigger stage, so this is one small step toward a bigger stage.” Perhaps a creative director’s job? “Yes, I have too many thoughts to sit alone in this huge space in Venice.”
