Roberto Cavalli, the iconic Italian fashion house, announced its participation in the WWD Global Fashion Summit, taking place on June 6 at the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) Conference Center in Riyadh.
The brand was represented by Fausto Puglisi, Cavalli’s Global Creative Director, who spoke on a panel discussing the region’s burgeoning fashion scene.
The panel discussion, titled “Unlocking the Power of Storytelling in Today’s Attention Economy,” explored how brands can engage with a new generation of digitally-native consumers. This theme resonates deeply with Cavalli, as the brand recognises the growing importance of the Saudi Arabian market, driven by its youthful population and strong digital adoption.
“It is pleasing to see how global fashion is interspersed into the fabric of the Middle East landscape, blending harmoniously with the local culture and heritage. The strength of the emerging fashion ecosystem in Saudi Arabia is that it is being led by Gen Z designers and aspirant brands born in a digital age,” said Puglisi. “We are excited to have been a part of this revolution and to contribute our experience in crafting a powerful brand narrative.”
Cavalli has a long history of embracing emerging markets and cultural influences. Puglisi’s participation marks a significant moment for the global luxury brand, reflecting Cavalli’s commitment to the growing luxury fashion market in the GCC region. His visit aligns with the region’s increasing thirst for luxury fashion and inclusivity.
Under Puglisi’s direction, Cavalli is experiencing a resurgence with the brand focusing on empowering individuality, redefining luxury, providing seamless shopping experiences across all channels, and strategically expanding its retail presence in the US, EMEA, and the Middle East.
Puglisi’s creative vision for Cavalli blends refined cultural influences with an energetic and distinctive style. His modern and sensual aesthetic has garnered international acclaim, establishing him as a leading talent in the fashion world.
Puglisi’s renowned collections have been worn by celebrities such as Nicki Minaj, M.I.A., Jennifer Lopez, Katy Perry, and Madonna. He has also collaborated with Taylor Swift on recent tour costumes.
Over the past 50 years Roberto Cavalli, has become a global fashion and lifestyle powerhouse, with signature designs that have dressed the celebrity jet-set all over the world. In 2012 the company expanded into interiors, launching Roberto Cavalli Home Collections. Today the Roberto Cavalli portfolio is positioned within the luxury segments with Junior, Fragrances, Watches, Eyewear and Just Cavalli collections.
In July 2019 Roberto Cavalli was acquired by Hussain Sajwani, Founder and Chairman of the DAMAC Group, and since then the brand has been making inroads into the region and leveraging its presence in the GCC.
The brand’s current retail expansion strategy focuses on the US and EMEA, with recent store openings in London and Las Vegas. Cavalli is actively exploring opportunities in the Middle East, particularly Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, demonstrating its commitment to sustained growth.
Puglisi’s participation in the WWD Global Fashion Summit reinforces Cavalli’s position as a brand committed to the region’s thriving fashion scene.
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