In Jan 2008, Giambattista Valli signed a five-year licensing deal with Ciwifurs, Marni’s parent, to produce and distribute the fur line. Valli introduced 50 looks for pre-fall, treating fur like fabric in terms of construction, shapes, weights and sartorial detail. “The market is very receptive and open to fur these days, especially when it’s treated in a new and modern way,” said Valli, who garnered a significant fur experience during his five-year stay at Fendi. “And Ciwifurs is the best when it comes to high-end furs because it has great artisans and pattern-cutters and they’re open to experimenting.”
European designers are re-imagining fur (read my previous article on fur here), using it for looks with a strong presence that range from a mink dress to a raccoon jacket trimmed with ostrich.