Eli Russell Linnetz to be guest designer at Pitti Uomo

Next June, ERL founder and artistic director Eli Russell Linetz will be one of the main protagonists of Pitti Uomo, the world's most important men's fashion event. Bringing his designs to the catwalk for the first time - he is used to preferring lookbooks - on 14 June, in the heart of Florence's historic center, Russell Linetz will present his vision of Californian fashion with a twist, as the official invitation says, «California Couture Made in Italy.»

His ERL brand has only been active for five years, but to date the designer has already achieved notable milestones; after winning the CFDA Emerging Designer of the Year award in 2021, Russell Linetz signed a prized collaboration with Kim Jones for Dior Men, later finding himself dressing A$AP Rocky for the Met Gala. «I feel like I need a bigger stage,» Russell explained, «I have too many ideas to sit here alone in this giant space in Venice.» At the June event, his brand will also present its new eyewear and footwear lines, both projects a first for the designer.

«Eli invents and builds worlds that feed on the sunny vitality of California,» explained Pitti Immagine's Director of Communications and Special Events Lapo Cianchi, «he mixes art and fashion with grace and joy, fusing inevitable street culture with luxury sportswear. All are accompanied by a clear media instinct, also evident in his recent collaborations with global brands and music stars. We are confident that his presence at Pitti Uomo will massively stimulate the entire fashion community»