"Jil Sander's new direction unveiled: Simone Bellotti shares initial insights through an EP and music video release"
In a bold move to redefine the fashion house's identity, Simone Bellotti, the newly appointed creative director of Jil Sander, has launched an innovative music project titled "Wanderlust". This creative endeavour, which includes a disco EP and a captivating music video, marked Bellotti's debut initiative as the successor to Lucie and Luke Meier, who stepped down in March 2023.
The music video, directed by Sean Vegezzi, serves as a visual journey through Hamburg, the city where Jil Sander opened her first store in 1968. It showcases the city's contrasting landscapes, from its industrial portlands to more bucolic scenes of nature, encapsulating the feeling of juxtaposition that lies at the heart of the label.
The protagonists in the video are dressed in clothing reminiscent of Jil Sander's own tenure at the house, donning crisp white shirts, ivory pencil skirts, navy knits, and a simple sleeveless pullover. This stylistic choice further emphasises Bellotti's commitment to blending the past with the present.
The "Wanderlust" project also features original compositions by Italian electronic music producer Bochum Welt, adding a cultural and artistic layer to the fashion house's revitalisation. Bellotti's vision for Jil Sander extends beyond fashion, aiming to create an emotional experience that is both visually and aurally engaging.
This departure from traditional fashion presentations reflects Bellotti's known flair for weaving history with contemporary touches, establishing a fresh narrative for the brand rooted in both fashion and multimedia artistry. His Bally, where he served as creative director, was celebrated for its just-off-kilter riffs on wardrobe archetypes, infused with a sense of whimsy and play.
The release of the "Wanderlust" EP and video suggests that Bellotti may be keen to take Jil Sander back to its roots. Vinyls of the EP will be available at Jil Sander boutiques, jilsander.com, and Kudos Distribution later in August. A physical event took place in Hamburg, featuring live performances of the "Wanderlust" tracks at OHG Hamburg, a former factory that now serves as a local cultural hub, aligning with Jil Sander's signature minimalist aesthetic.
In conclusion, Bellotti's tenure at Jil Sander is marked by a commitment to innovation and interdisciplinary approaches. The "Wanderlust" project is not just a standalone music EP or video, but an integral part of Bellotti's broader vision for revitalising Jil Sander, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in the fashion house's history.
Simone Bellotti's "Wanderlust" project isn't confined to music alone, instead it forms a significant part of his comprehensive plan to revive Jil Sander. The fashion house's lifestyle under Bellotti's leadership promises to engage not only the fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts but also music lovers, merging the worlds of entertainment and fashion.
