ellesse is a brand that defies categories — it's fashion but it's sport, it's young and contemporary but it's also 60 years old and rooted in rich history. These are elements of ellesse's identity that it embraces, like Highsnobiety, it's a fluid, evolving, and diverse brand.
Founder Leonardo Servadio — who lends his initials L.S. to the brand's name — demonstrated this when he launched ellesse in 1959, pioneering the use of tailoring techniques in sportswear design. Over the years, the label has shown its willingness to evolve as it's grown from ski and tennis clothing into a fashion brand.
In the spirit of embracing change and showcasing personality through style, we put out a company call for ellesse fans in our Berlin office and got a heap of responses from people down to style the brand's latest collection their way. They also gave us their thoughts on ellesse and the collection, so you get insight into how and why the Highsnobiety team is wearing their favorite collection pieces.
Viktor, affiliate partnerships executive
What comes to mind when you think of ellesse?
When I think of ellesse I always picture that navy blue tracksuit my dad used to wear back in the day. He bought it in the 80s and rocked it through the 90s as a casual Sunday afternoon fit. The brand has some history to it and was endorsed by some major sportsmen like Boris Becker, which is great!
Why did you choose to wear these pieces from the collection?
I chose the striped t-shirt as it’s a classic retro piece that goes well with the whole vibe of SS19. A side bag is a must-have these days, especially for those long summer days ahead - you gotta keep everything together.
How did you style them and why?
By tucking in the t-shirt and wearing some chill dress pants I wanted to give it a more formal look while still being casual with the side bag and the hat. A nice vest is also a summer essential that can give your fit that little extra it needs sometimes.
What do you think of the collection?
I like the fact that the collection stays true to the brand itself and makes usage of some great color combinations and designs from the 80s and 90s.
Stella, office manager
What comes to mind when you think of ellesse?
The first thing that pops into my head is the logo because it’s so recognizable and prominent. I like the brand’s Italian flair, it’s never faded over the years; despite various fashion trends, they always manage to keep their initial essence.
Why did you choose to wear these pieces from the collection?
The colors of the 80s tracksuit jacket instantly caught my eye and suit my style completely.
How did you style them and why?
When it comes to fashion, I like combining things that normally would not go together. My favorite things in the world are freaky, funky, and weird coats because you can mix and match them with almost everything, from basic pieces to colorful sportswear. I combined ellesse’s bright street flair with my trashy faux-fur coat.
What do you think of the collection?
I’d buy most of it if they’d let me.
Fania, junior talent manager
What comes to mind when you think of ellesse?
Big bold branding and colors.
How did you style what you’re wearing and why?
I styled them in a Miami, low cut pants kinda way. ellesse is a very colorful brand, however, I chose the black pieces with simple branding as this is more my style and goes fab with my other pieces.
Avery, front-end developer
What comes to mind when you think of ellesse?
80s sports fashion. I like that they have quality pieces for a good price.
Why did you choose to wear these pieces from the collection?
Summer’s coming up and I’ve got a few trips planned so I decided on the swimsuit and a pair of sliders.
How did you style them and why?
I just threw on a pair of casual pants because the swimsuit doubles up as a top. This will probably be my outfit 90% of the time during my holidays.
What do you think of the collection?
I’m a fan of it, the pastel colors put me in a good mood ?
Michael, tech growth manager
What comes to mind when you think of ellesse?
I grow up in Italy during the 90s, ellesse was an ever-present brand during that time. It really reminds me of my childhood and brings some positive memories to life.
Why did you choose to wear these pieces from the collection?
I chose some very comfy summer shorts, I feel they can be worn as regular sports shorts but they also fit really well to a cool streetwear look. Along with to the shorts I chose some clean white sneakers with a splash of yellow.
What do you think of the collection?
I really like the fresh and bright colors in combination with some nostalgic design (classic brand) elements. The brand manages to keep a healthy balance between its heritage and at the same time modern elements and colors.
Lotti, culture manager
Why did you choose to wear these pieces from the collection?
I liked the 90s vibes and I felt comfortable in them. They remind me a lot of clothes my older brothers used to wear when I was little.
How did you style them and why?
I paired the sneakers and socks with slightly cropped blue jeans, a bling belt, a basic white tee, and an oversized geometric zip-up jacket. I choose this combo because each piece is something I feel comfortable and confident in and can integrate into different outfits.
What do you think of the collection?
I love the zip-up jackets! They bring a nostalgic and interesting feel to an outfit. They will definitely become staples in my closet.
Sean, web developer
What comes to mind when you think of ellesse?
Colorful, sporty, and light-hearted.
Why did you choose to wear these pieces from the collection?
The hoodie was an easy pick. The bold red offset by the white piping along the arms is super clean.
How did you style them and why?
Its playfulness. It captures the fun and colorful side that summer brings out, which seems to go missing in the winter.
What do you think of the collection?
I love the zip-up jackets! They bring a nostalgic and interesting feel to an outfit. They will definitely become staples in my closet.
Nigel, junior creative commerce
What comes to mind when you think of ellesse?
Old school low-key sportswear that's been around forever. And the logo.
Why did you choose to wear these pieces from the collection?
I chose simple track pants paired with a track jacket in Cam'ron pink. Both of the styles are very easy to wear, just how I like my fits.
How did you style them and why?
An easy outfit needs easy and classy footwear, hence the Wallabee.
