Creative Director Andreas Melbostad and Diesel founder Renzo Rosso sound off on Diesel Black Gold.
Denim means big business, and no one knows that better than Diesel founder and OTB (Only the Brave) President Renzo Rosso. The man referred to by Suzy Menkes as the “Jeans Genius,” Rosso’s risk-taking attitude has ensured the Italian-born brand has been positioned firmly at the forefront of denim innovation for the past 40 years. In 2008, Rosso’s foresight led to the extension of the Diesel universe and the introduction of a new alternative line, Diesel Black Gold. Currently under the creative direction of Andreas Melbostad, who throughout his career has collaborated with the likes of Alber Elbaz, Guy Laroche, Calvin Klein and more, Diesel Black Gold represents the finest expression of the brand’s rich heritage.
Under Melbostad’s direction, both the women’s and men’s collections have garnered widespread acclaim for their sophisticated urban style and international cosmopolitan aesthetic. The Norwegian designer furthering the DNA of the line with a new creative vision and contemporary take on classic utilitarian styles.
New Generation Denim
The Type-2614 marked the birth of a new denim icon for Diesel Black Gold. Conceptualized and created by Melbostad, the gender fluid design aesthetic and innovative construction setting the extra-long gathered 5-pockets design apart from the rest. Crafted from a stretch reform fabric with a perfect proportion between the skinny fit and wrinkled effect, the Type 2614 is universally flattering.
As with the men’s version, the Type-2614 for women is conceived to add extra texture to a long lean cut
A new urban femininity
The brand’s iconic utilitarian, industrial look meets a subtle romanticism influenced by the ethereal aesthetic of David Hamilton’s pictures. The dichotomy between fragility and strength, the contrasting forces behind toughness and tenderness, find a dynamic balance in the Spring Summer 2017 collection.
A return to the origins of denim
Inspired by the work of Irving Penn in the 1950s, and his travels across London, Paris and New York. The men’s Spring Summer 2017 collection embodies the spirit of the working class, captured by the famed photographer in his book ‘Small Trades’. Melbostad has drawn on utilitarian and workwear influences to create a new urban uniform: practical pieces with a distinctly masculine attitude. As to be expected, denim takes center stage in the lineup, rediscovering its roots liked to work apparel.
Special thanks to Andreas Melbostad and Renzo Rosso
Images courtesy of Diesel Black Gold
This interview has been edited and condensed.
