ASPESI’s New Editorial Project Looks to Define the Art of Uniform Dressing

In a new editorial project captured by photographer Lodovico Colli di Felizzano, Italian fashion label ASPESI presents a discovery into the concept of the uniform. With its ultra-refined and timeless aesthetic which have lent to the formation of many personal wardrobes, the label explores how the approach to dressing is more a stamp of personality as opposed to a blanket expression of uniformity.

The first installment of the series – titled “The Uniform – Arts and Crafts” – hones in on the creative community. As individuals who use clothes in an extension of their craft, personal style is deemed an important tool of their representation. Plant artist Satoshi Kawamoto and arts development manager Caterina Licitra open the series with a look into their personal uniforms. Though different in their practices, the episodes show how their style has become a way for people to understand their unique careers, and as a result, have created a special bond with their wardrobes.

Based in Milan but previously calling Japan and New York his home, Kawamoto’s uniform has evolved with every city he has lived in. He features in the series wearing the label’s iconic recycled Nylon shirt and classic white T-shirt as well as a New Era cap which he picked up in his days working at vintage stores in New York. “I like clothes that are easy to wear, mixing both new and vintage. Similar to my work, the balance is key,” the plant artist shares in the episode.

Being an asian creative, Kawamoto often finds people assuming that he draws inspiration from Ikebana, a Japanese form of plant arranging. However, it couldn’t be further from the truth, noting that he doesn’t think about “oriental style.” His curiosity with flowers and foliage began on his grandmother’s balcony and later, he developed an aesthetic that is free-flowing, aiming to transform how people relate to plants. Through his dress sense, he emphasizes his creative approach, saying, “I don’t feel comfortable when something is too perfect, I like messy.”

A close association with his past is what connects Kawamoto to Licitra. In her episode, the proclaimed “art catalyst” is situated in Parco dei Principi, a hotel designed by her great grandfather, whilst recalling the memories of her ancestors. “The one teaching that I carry from my grandmother is lightness, she reminded me to be light in life and work,” says Licitria. With this considered, she wears an outfit that allows her to channel a light and effervescent energy: ASPESI’s elegant silk pajama set with an abstract camouflage print.

As Licitra roams the world, bringing art to “new people and different situations”, outfits similar to the one she adorns helps her stay comfortable yet put together enough so that she can confidently promote new pieces. The art manager explains, “For me, uniform means comfort. You need to be ready for everything but more importantly, you need to be comfortable.” Along with her signature haircut, her uniform is a way to bring her own flair to the typical black suited art industry.

Discover the two episodes in “The Uniform – Arts and Crafts” series in the galleries above.

To shop the new season pieces featured, head to ASPESI’s website now.