Bong Shhouk Lake Stefano Ricci Spring-Summer 2025 Collection. Photographed by Steven McCurry
In its fifth mission, “Mission Cambodia,” SR Explorer embarks on a journey to a land of legends, where the modern world thrives alongside rich natural resources like the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers and lush vegetation. From the dawn at Beng Mealea to the sacred Apsara dancers at Preah Khan, Stefano Ricci’s latest collection is deeply inspired by the profound emotions and experiences encountered in this extraordinary land.
This expedition, shared with Niccolò Ricci and the Stefano Ricci team, draws inspiration from the legendary photographer Steve McCurry. Working with McCurry in the Khmer temples, jungles, and Mekong waters, the journey captures the essence of timeless Khmer culture through its architecture, sculptures, and the natural world reclaiming its ancient stones.
The exploration extended from Bong Chhouk Lake to Kulen Elephant Forest, where retired elephants find sanctuary, and along the legendary Mekong to the luxurious oasis of Shinta Mani Wild. Cambodia evokes ancestral emotions, reminiscent of the literary works of Pierre Loti, Henri Mouhot, and Somerset Maugham’s “Gentleman in the Parlour.”
Inspired by the spirit of exploration, the collection features natural tones of the earth, greens of the forest, greys of Angkor temples, and blues of the Cambodian sky. The garments, made of natural fibers like cotton and cotton-linen blends, adapt to extreme weather conditions. The commitment to sustainability includes planting 5,000 trees and educational programs to ensure future generations take pride in their heritage. Cambodia, chosen for its beauty and deeper soul exploration, embodies the motto: “Explore the world to explore ourselves.”
Defining Luxury with STEFANO RICCI: The Legacy of Excellence
Since its founding in 1972 by the Florentine designer Stefano Ricci, the brand has become synonymous with luxury, elegance, and unparalleled craftsmanship. Every piece is made in-house, from apparel to footwear to luggage, ensuring the highest quality in the menswear industry. The brand’s vertical integration allows for complete control over every aspect of production, maintaining the legacy of excellence that defines Stefano Ricci.
Stefano Ricci’s dedication to luxury is evident in their use of the finest materials and expert craftsmanship. The brand’s commitment to preserving and enhancing the heritage of menswear is reflected in each meticulously crafted garment, showcasing a unique and sophisticated style that caters to the modern explorer.
Economic Growth and Strategic Investments
After record revenues in 2023, reaching 215 million euros (+43% compared to the previous year) and with 50 new hires in Italy, STEFANO RICCI continues to invest in production. The acquisition of two Arezzo companies, Petrarca Confezioni S.r.l. and Pantalonificio Chimera S.r.l., brings the Group’s employees to 800. New logistics premises in Peretola and the transfer of the tailoring workshop to Fiesole aim to improve production efficiency.
Niccolò Ricci, CEO of Stefano Ricci SpA, states, “Having recorded the highest sales in our brand’s history, we are consolidating this growth with a 360-degree strategic vision of the entire Luxury Lifestyle segment.” New openings include Hong Kong Ritz Carlton, Ho Chi Minh City, and Houston, continuing to invest in the supply chain to maintain the highest quality.
Sustainability and Environmental Conservation
STEFANO RICCI reaffirms its commitment to sustainability by partnering with international institutions. Agreements with the Charles Darwin Foundation in the Galapagos Islands and the Kazakh Falconry Association for the royal eagle in Mongolia highlight their dedication. The SR Explorer mission in Cambodia involves reintroducing Asian elephants into their natural habitat, training personnel for monitoring, and reforesting degraded areas by planting 5,000 trees.
Steve McCurry’s Magnificent Images
Steve McCurry’s photographs capture the serene faces of the Bayon temple, evoking tranquility and compassion. The collaboration with the Ricci family, sharing a dedication and passion for their work, led to a new future project envisioned through their journey together.
Spring/Summer 2025 Collection: Inspired by Cambodia
Developing the collection was a long journey of research and preparation. Inspired by Cambodia’s rich history, the collection features four elements: water, stone, nature, and life. Water symbolizes the wild Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake, while stone represents the ancient temples. Nature and wildlife, preserved in the jungle and the Kulen Forest Elephant Reserve, and life, embodied by the sacred Apsara dancers and Khmer people, complete the inspiration.
The collection includes 24 looks in the SR Explorer Cambodia edition book and 68 outfits in the lookbook. The style for Spring/Summer 2025 is timeless elegance, blending the myths of antiquity with modern values, nature’s colors, and spiritual energy. Key pieces include Saharian jackets, linen shirts, field jackets, and knitwear, designed for the modern explorer.
Niccolò and Filippo Ricci: The Driving Force Behind STEFANO RICCI
Niccolò Ricci, CEO, focuses on strategic growth and maintaining the brand’s highest quality. Filippo Ricci, Creative Director, ensures the collection embodies the spirit of exploration and sustainability. Their leadership and vision continue to drive STEFANO RICCI as a pinnacle of luxury menswear, committed to preserving the environment through innovative projects.
Wild Earth Allies Partnership
STEFANO RICCI’s partnership with Wild Earth Allies supports Asian elephant conservation in Cambodia. The collaboration aims to protect vital habitats, integrating cultural values and enhancing local livelihoods. Executive Director Katie Frohardt and Board Chair Clea Newman express gratitude for Stefano Ricci’s support in conservation, reforestation, and environmental education, inspiring the next generation to protect nature.
Through “Mission Cambodia,” STEFANO RICCI showcases the beauty of Cambodia and their dedication to sustainability, culture, and luxury. This collection is a testament to their commitment to exploring the world and preserving its wonders for future generation
Comments, questions or feedback? Email me at jdeacetis@gmail.com
About the Author:
Joseph DeAcetis covers the intersections of style, culture art and fashion with a special emphasis on theevolving status of menswear. Over the course of his career, he has written award-winning columns for Esquire, People Magazine, Robb Report, and Playboy.
Most recently, he served as creative fashion director for Forbes Media as both critic and reporter and has written widely on the importance of dressing for success and how advancements in technology have influenced the business of fashion in the twenty-first century. A Professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology, his most recent role is editor at StyleLujo.com and the launch of his LATINX menswear brand POTRO.
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