To celebrate the legacy of Pitti Uomo, we are launching a four-part video series highlighting four select designers who have contributed to the heart of Pitti’s history. The fourth in the series features Stone Island, an iconic menswear label.

Founded by Massimo Osti in 1982, Italian label Stone Island has become an integral part of European and British culture. With a foundation rooted in innovation and functional detailing, their early designs featured Tela Stella, a tarpaulin-like, heavily-stonewashed fabric. These fledgeling designs created a culture of research and acute attention to detail. A culture which has amassed a dedicated following, loyal to the label's ever-so-iconic iconic ''Compass'' patch logo, textile experimentation and exclusive collaborations.

In 2012, Stone Island presented 'STONE ISLAND 30' - an exhibition at Pitti Immagine Uomo no.8. Celebrating thirty years of history, research and experimentation, the exhibition was a detailed retrospective of the label’s greatest moments. 

Curated by Simon Foxton and Nick Griffiths at the grandiose Stazione Leopolda, the retrospective was divided into 8 themed areas. Tracing the history of the Stone Island, the exhibition featured 200 iconic garments from their 2012 archive, showcasing innovative treatments, such as fabric coating and thermo-sensitive textiles.

The exhibition also saw the debut of the  'Archivio ’982–’012 'book. Featuring over 300 iconic archive images, cementing the label’s cultural impact and historic evolution.