Ann Demeulemeester Fall/Winter 2025 / FW25 at Paris Fashion Week. The Evolution of Fashion: Stefano Gallici’s Vision for Ann Demeulemeester.
Fashion is an art form that constantly evolves, inviting individuals to explore and redefine their identities. Stefano Gallici, appointed as the creative director of Ann Demeulemeester in 2023, takes this notion to heart, blending the emotive power of music with fashion’s deeply introspective qualities. Through his vision, he reimagines the relationship between the wearer and the clothing, presenting fashion as a journey rather than a destination. In his words, “What matters is the journey, not the destination. One finds oneself only by getting lost into the unknown, discovering new grounds.” Gallici’s work at Ann Demeulemeester is a canvas for personal transformation, inviting us to embark on our own journey of self-discovery.
Stefano Gallici creative philosophy draws from his deep love for punk rock, indie, and garage music—genres known for their raw emotion and rebellious spirit. For him, fashion is not just about the clothes but about the emotions and stories woven into every thread. He embraces the idea of being lost in one’s thoughts and dreams, reflecting that sentiment in his designs. As he imagines himself walking down a boulevard in layers of black, distressed shearling, and beaded cords, he creates a vision where clothing is more than an aesthetic; it becomes a language for emotions and a narrative of personal identity. His collections evoke the feeling of being both grounded and free, encouraging a personal connection with each piece.
The highlights of Ann Demeulemeester FW25 / Fall/Winter 2025 by Stefano Gallici ’s direction is in its ability to capture the essence of transformation. As he describes his favorite blue denim turning brown and his t-shirt fading to ivory, he paints a picture of how time and experiences shape who we are. His clothing becomes an artifact, worn and lived in, embodying the passage of time and the journey of self-exploration. This concept of evolving garments connects deeply with the notion of fashion as a continuous reinvention, where one’s clothes tell the story of their experiences, memories, and dreams. Gallici’s vision turns every piece into a metaphor for change and growth.
Through this lens, fashion becomes more than just a uniform of the day. It’s an emotional experience, one that captures a moment in time but also propels us forward. Gallici’s longing for a uniform that embodies purpose and detachment resonates with many who seek clarity and focus in their lives. His designs offer a space for contemplation, a chance to shed the unnecessary and embrace the essential. Whether it’s the sharp, structured black-and-white suit with a razor-sharp white strip or the battered brim of a leather hat shielding against the sun, Gallici’s pieces provide not only style but a deep connection to the wearer’s inner journey.
As Stefano Gallici continues to build upon the legacy of Ann Demeulemeester—who herself challenged gender norms and redefined the boundaries of fashion—the intersection of personal identity, emotional depth, and innovative design remains at the core of his work. Fashion, in his eyes, is not a destination but a journey where one can lose themselves, find themselves, and then lose themselves again, always evolving. Through his direction, Gallici invites us to explore the infinite roads that fashion can take us on, encouraging us to question, dream, and discover our most authentic selves.
Stefano Gallici, born in 1996 in Teor, Italy, discovered his passion for fashion through punk rock, indie, and garage music, which fueled his creative journey and became the foundation of his work. A graduate of IUAV University in Venice, he joined Ann Demeulemeester in 2020 and was appointed creative director in 2023. His approach blends musical influences with a deep respect for Ann Demeulemeester’s legacy, which is defined by androgynous silhouettes, dark romanticism, and a challenge to gender norms. Since its inception in 1985, Ann Demeulemeester has left a lasting imprint on fashion, and under Gallici’s direction, the brand continues to evolve with a vibrant, individual signature that celebrates both its roots and forward-thinking creativity.
All images Ann Demeulemeester FW25 / Fall/Winter 2025 by the brand. PR Agency KCD Worldwide Paris. Credit to Creative Director Stefano Gallici, Styling Elodie David Touboul, Hair Anthony Turner, Make Up Inge Grognard, Casting Ben Grimes, Production Urban Production, Video Videogang .