SimplyAbuDhabi XII

2 5 2 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I C ruciani came to life in 1992, the brainchild of Italian entrepreneur, Luca Caprai. Using his reputable clothing line that specialises in wool and cashmere of the highest quality as a vehicle for excellence, Caprai aims to produce indulgent garments of the highest standards of craftsmanship and quality. He wanted to create desirable clothes to the highest specifications. As he states, his vision is that of “Developing desires and giving them tangible form. A Cruciani product cannot but be made entirely in Italy and represent the best of a traditional heritage, the state of an art in continual evolution. Two requisites that plainly cannot be met outside Italy”. The Cruciani brand is now perceived as different and distinctive. The name of Cruciani not only evokes the work done by a company but a new art de vivre. Rules are ‘décontracté’, attitudes are cosmopolitan and elegance is de rigueur. And of course the company is now known around the globe for the incredible phenomenon of the Cruciani bracelet. Initially conceived by Capri as a smart promotional object, the popularity of these handmade bracelets literally exploded all around the world. First they were sported by a long line of celebrities and film stars, and soon after they were ubiquitous. Now there are a slew of dedicated bracelet stores opening up in all corners of the world. With unquestionable cult status, the Cruciani bracelet has now sold more than 10,000,000 pieces. But this should not overshadow the beautiful collections of clothing from the brand. Today’s designers at the fashion house aim to break the mould, preserving the traditional Italian heritage of the finest quality clothing, but creating at the same time a distinctive style. The result? A young, modern label with timeless Italian quality at its root. This season, the creative team have drawn inspiration from the autumnal woodland. Natural hues of brown, green and beige permeate. Earthy fabrics are used throughout – wools and cashmere remaining central to the collection, along with the natural accompaniment of exquisite felt – bringing a rugged appearance of surprising softness thanks to new yarns. Knitwear is brought to life with three-dimensional patterns, alongside the brand’s signature cashmere collection with cable motifs. The 70s era is ostensibly present in this latest collection. Slim fitting jumpers, sporty jackets, sheepskin trims, contrasting collars, jewelled tones of ruby and aubergine, skinny trousers and cosy scarf accessories all nod at the bygone days. One striking example is a polo-neck jumper in burnt orange patterned with red and cream rounded squares and worn – as is only fitting – with slim fit navy trousers and a generous beard. Cruciani