Max Mara Unveils the Magnificent 2026 Resort Collection in Naples
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On June 17, Italian luxury house Max Mara presented its 2026 Resort Collection, titled Venere Vesuviana, at the grand Caserta Palace near Naples.
The venue, Reggia di Caserta—an architectural masterpiece of Baroque design and a UNESCO World Heritage Site—provided a dramatic stage for the show, with its sweeping marble staircase transformed into a runway. With the theme “Pride, Passion, and Empowerment of Parthenope,” the collection intertwined the mythological beauty of Mediterranean goddesses and the postwar elegance of Italian women.
A Homage to 1951 and the Golden Age of Cinema
The year 1951 marked not only the rebirth of Italy after the war but also the founding of Max Mara. It was also the year photographer Ruth Orkin captured the now-iconic American Girl in Italy, depicting a woman confidently walking alone—a bold statement at the time. Actresses like Sophia Loren and Silvana Mangano captivated the world with their beauty, strength, and sensual charisma, embodying the essence of Italian femininity.
The collection draws direct inspiration from cinematic heroines of the 1950s. Looks include short pants reminiscent of Bitter Rice (Riso Amaro), circle skirts with 3D diamond-shaped pockets, portrait-collar tops, and strappy dresses—each evoking the elegance of Sophia Loren. The recurring emphasis on the body silhouette offers a contemporary reinterpretation of vintage sensuality.
Collaboration with Neapolitan Craftsmanship
A highlight of the collection is a collaboration with historic Neapolitan menswear house E. Marinella. A classic 1951 cravat pattern was reimagined into silk pajamas and embroidered cashmere sweaters, blurring the line between loungewear and high elegance.
The brand’s signature coats took on various forms this season: from shawl collars and funnel necklines to fringe-adorned silhouettes. Standouts included a dramatic crystal-embellished panno gown and silk gauze corsetry, infusing the Neapolitan spirit of theatricality.
Redefining Masculinity: The Modern “Chiatillo”
While primarily a womenswear collection, Max Mara presented a modern interpretation of masculinity. The look of a “Chiatillo”—a stylish and slightly vain Neapolitan gentleman—was conveyed through candy-striped shirts with white collars paired with lightly tailored Neapolitan jackets. This addition reflects today’s gender-neutral sensibilities and speaks to a broader spectrum of elegance.
Max Mara’s 2026 Resort Collection seamlessly blended the brand’s heritage with the cultural richness of Naples, all while championing the modern ideals of independence and grace.
“Viva Venere Vesuviana!”—a powerful proclamation that signals Max Mara’s ongoing commitment to quiet strength and timeless sophistication in the ever-evolving narrative of global fashion.
Explore the full 2026 Resort Collection by Max Mara in the gallery below.
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