How a Bolognese fashion rebel brings utilitarian chic to the cultural heart of Bologna
words MATTIA MARCASSA BARBIERI
Magliano, the avant-garde fashion house rooted in Bologna, has crafted an unexpected yet deeply resonant new project: the staff uniforms for Palazzo Bentivoglio, a storied cultural space in the city. This collaboration elevates the humble work uniform into a statement of art, identity, and functionality.
For Magliano, whose collections often reimagine the aesthetics of workwear, this project was a natural extension of the brand’s ethos. The uniform ensemble pays homage to the utilitarian roots of work attire while infusing it with the brand’s signature narrative depth. From the functional to the poetic, each piece tells a story of labor, community, and place. The work apron, adorned with bold prints and meticulously placed patches, acts as a canvas for Palazzo Bentivoglio’s identity. It reflects keywords tied to the venue’s cultural mission, framed by an industrial-tech aesthetic that feels both nostalgic and futuristic. The People’s Pant, a Magliano staple, has been reimagined with a utilitarian twist for this collaboration. High-visibility graphic treatments and exaggerated branding add a touch of heroic flair to the otherwise understated silhouette, turning an everyday garment into a celebration of craft and culture.
Materials of Meaning
Both the apron and the pants are crafted using fabrics from Marzotto Forniture Civili, a division of the iconic Veneto-based textile company specializing in durable and elegant materials for uniforms. This choice brings durability and luxury to the project, blending utility with sophistication in a way that honors both the workers and the heritage of Italian textiles.
Palazzo Bentivoglio: A Space for Stories
Located in Bologna, Palazzo Bentivoglio is not merely an exhibition space but a cultural hub where art, history, and contemporary thought intersect. The uniforms are an extension of this ethos, designed to bridge the functional needs of the staff with the creative spirit that defines the venue.
The Vision of Camille Vivier
To immortalize the project, renowned photographer Camille Vivier captured the uniforms in a series of evocative images. Her lens emphasizes the duality of the garments: rooted in the practicality of work but elevated to objects of visual and conceptual intrigue.
Magliano and Palazzo Bentivoglio’s partnership is more than just a design project; it’s a rethinking of what uniforms can represent. By merging the world of fashion with the cultural and historical weight of Palazzo Bentivoglio, Magliano redefines workwear as something aspirational, artistic, and deeply connected to its environment. This collaboration highlights how thoughtful design can transform even the most practical garments into vessels of cultural dialogue, a reminder that creativity thrives in the everyday spaces where art and labor meet.
