Saturday, 18 January 2025

Milan Fashion Week: Fluid Forms and Fine Fabrics ~ Altea Debuts Womenswear Alongside Menswear

Italian label Altea debuted a womenswear collection at Milan Fashion Week. Photograph: Anna Nguyen. Cover picture by Jay Zoo
Among this season’s highlights at Milan Fashion Week was Altea, the storied Italian fashion house, whose latest collection redefines contemporary luxury with a new foray into womenswear. This milestone marks the Autumn/Winter 2025-2026 collection as an important moment for the label, blending signature Italian sophistication with an aesthetic that celebrates nature and craftsmanship. Story by Antonio Visconti. Photography by Anna Nguyen and Jay Zoo

Fine silks and cashmere are signatures of Altea.
Photograph: Anna Nguyen
THE NEW ALTEA collection represents a significant expansion, introducing a womenswear line that reflects the brand’s sophistication while exploring new dimensions of design. 

Drawing inspiration from the beauty of nature, the collection offers a palette reminiscent of a forest at dusk. Warm mustard, rust, and deep greens merge harmoniously with mineral tones and understated neutrals, creating a narrative as serene as it is striking. 

Silhouettes have fluid forms with layered textures evoking both modernity and comfort. Knitwear emerges as the collection’s centerpiece, embodying the brand’s reputation for impeccable craftsmanship. From heavy cashmere shawl collar cardigans to lightweight Merino crewnecks, these pieces redefine the possibilities of knitwear as a versatile and stylish wardrobe staple. 

At the heart of Altea’s new collection lies a philosophy of mindful modernity, a concept that emphasizes thoughtful design and environmental responsibility. Each garment reflects a balance between grace and utility, allowing wearers to move from day to evening. Outerwear pieces, including reimagined classics and statement coats, highlight the brand’s focus on longevity. Meanwhile, shirts and tailored items push the boundaries of everyday formality with innovative cuts and luxurious fabrics. 

At the heart of Altea’s new collection lies a philosophy of mindful modernity, a concept that emphasizes thoughtful design and environmental responsibility

Voluminous, textural knitwear adds a luxurious 
feeling to the new womenswear collection.
Photograph: Anna Nguyen 
Altea’s commitment to sustainability is evident throughout the collection. The brand sources yarns from suppliers known for ethical practices, including Cariaggi for cashmere and Tintoria di Pollone for linen blends. 

The use of biodegradable materials and an emphasis on local production further reduce the environmental impact, evincing Altea’s commitment to sustainable fashion.  

Founded in 1892, Altea has long demonstrated Italy’s mastery of fine textile production. From its roots in men’s accessories, the brand has evolved into a label celebrated for its vibrant design. Altea has always utilized Italian artisanship, partnering with specialist suppliers in regions like Umbria and Marche, the heartlands of knitwear expertise.  
 
Central to Altea’s ethos is a meticulous approach to material selection. The brand sources natural fibres such as cashmere, alpaca, silk, and Egyptian cotton, each chosen for its superior qualities and sustainability. By working with ethically certified mills, the label ensures that its creations align with today's environmental standards. 
 
The label utilizes Italian artisanship, partnering with specialist suppliers in regions like Umbria and Marche, the heartlands of knitwear expertise 

Established in 1892, Altea has a long history
of working with Italian artisans. 
Photograph: Anna Nguyen
The Autumn/Winter 2025-2026 collection demonstrates the transformative power of beautiful materials. Cashmere, sourced from the undercoat of Himalayan goats, lends a velvety softness and natural thermoregulating properties to Altea’s knitwear. 

This luxurious fibre is elevated further through blends with silk, creating garments that are as lightweight as they are indulgent. 

Linen and alpaca are also favoured materials of the label. Linen's breathability and texture make it an ideal choice for layering, while alpaca’s hypoallergenic properties and durability provide warmth. Blended yarns, such as wool and cashmere combinations, showcase the brand’s ability to harness the best qualities of each material, delivering garments that are functional and refined. 

As the fashion industry grapples with its environmental impact, Altea aims to be a responsible manufacturer. The brand’s localized production network in Italy minimizes carbon emissions, while partnerships with mills like Filmar and Zegna Baruffa emphasize traceability and ethical practices. 

A holistic approach reflects a respect for the natural world and a vision for a more sustainable future in fashion

The presentation in Milan was an atmospheric event
that was a rich backdrop for the new collection
Photograph: Jay Zoo
By choosing biodegradable fibres and avoiding harmful chemicals, Altea creates clothing that is both kind to the planet as well as being luxurious. 
 
Beyond the sustainability of materials, the label fosters long-term relationships with its suppliers, so there is consistency across collections. This holistic approach reflects a respect for the natural world and a vision for a more sustainable future in fashion. 

This seasons' debut of Altea’s womenswear collection signals a new direction for the brand, one that is grounded in its rich heritage. By blending the artistry of Italian craftsmanship with a forward-thinking ethos, Altea continues to redefine contemporary luxury. As Milan Fashion Week celebrates the best of global fashion, Altea still signifies Italian finesse. 

Scroll down to see highlights from the Autumn/Winter 2025-26 Menswear & Womenswear collection
Milan Fashion Week, Autumn/Winter 2025-2026: Altea. Photograph: Jay Zoo

Milan Fashion Week, Autumn/Winter 2025-2026: Altea. Photograph; Jay Zoo

Milan Fashion Week, Autumn/Winter 2025-2026: Altea, Photograph: Anna Nguyen

Milan Fashion Week, Autumn/Winter 2025-2026: Altea. Photograph; Jay Zoo
Milan Fashion Week, Autumn/Winter 2025-2026: Altea. Photograph: Jay Zoo

Milan Fashion Week, Autumn/Winter 2025-2026: Altea. Photograph: Jay Zoo

Milan Fashion Week, Autumn/Winter 2025-2026: Altea. Photograph: Anna Nguyen

Milan Fashion Week, Autumn/Winter 2025-2026; Altea. Photograph: Jay Zoo

Milan Fashion Week, Autumn/Winter 2025-2026: Altea. Photograph: Jay Zoo

Milan Fashion Week, Autumn/Winter 2025-2026: Altea.Photograph: Jay Zoo



Milan Fashion Week, Autumn/Winter 2025-2026: Altea. Photograph: Anna Nguyen









Milan Fashion Week, Autumn/Winter 2025-2026: Altea. Photograph: Anna Nguyen




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