Exploring Contemporary Brands: Why Moncler can be the hub for your creative growth
Alumnus Edoardo Mingarini explains how Moncler’s technical demands and cultural impact shaped his path as a designer and strategist
Today, it’s undeniable that contemporary brands, once on the fringes of the luxury industry, now lead the global conversation. Over the last decade, the fashion landscape has undergone a radical shift. A new generation of labels, defined by bold aesthetics, omnichannel and digital-friendly communication, and deep cultural resonance, has emerged, rewriting the system’s rulebook. These contemporary brands are agile and attuned to the values of today’s consumers. By blending streetwear authenticity with global ambition, they have transitioned from being highly followed but distant from the establishment to becoming integral to it. Through collaborations and fashion week appearances, they have risen to key player status, shaping the future of fashion while launching the careers of emerging creatives.This movement goes beyond a mere trend; it signifies a broader redefinition of success in fashion, where authenticity, innovation, and community are valued more than traditional luxury heritage. These brands don’t just design clothes; they create entire worlds. Most importantly, they provide a platform for emerging talent to thrive, including designers, marketers, stylists, and more.
In this episode of "Exploring Contemporary Brands", we spotlight Edoardo Mingarini, a graduate of Istituto Marangoni Milano, who has swiftly made his mark at Moncler. Artwork by Constanza Coscia
That’s the mission behind “Exploring Contemporary Brands—What If You Thrive?,” a series that highlights Istituto Marangoni alumni who are shaping the future of fashion from inside these creative powerhouses.
Moncler serves as a perfect example. “We often say that the biggest challenge is striking the right balance between creativity and commercial viability,” explains Edoardo Mingarini, who is featured in this second chapter. As an alumnus of Istituto Marangoni Milano and the current Senior Designer of Menswear at Moncler, he adds, “While luxury brands are traditionally known for accessories like bags or shoes, Moncler was the first to transform the puffer jacket into a true statement piece, crafting an entire wardrobe around it.”
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Mingarini’s role at Moncler encompasses ready-to-wear collections, special projects, and the prestigious Moncler Genius, all while collaborating closely with Sergio Zambon, the Head of Menswear. Before joining Remo Ruffini’s company, Mingarini developed a dynamic and versatile career at some of Italy’s most innovative fashion houses. He was the Menswear Designer at Sunnei, where he served as Head of RTW Menswear and contributed to the brand’s distinctive aesthetic between 2020 and 2023. Prior to that, he was the Senior RTW Designer at TOD’S, where he infused the brand’s menswear line with his sharp contemporary sensibility. Earlier in his career, he worked alongside Federico Curradi in Florence and Umit Benan, collaborating closely with the creative directors on everything from concept development to technical execution. However, his journey began at MSGM, where he gained essential experience in the fast-paced, high-energy world of modern Italian fashion.
In this Q&A, alumnus Edoardo Mingarini reflects on the intensity, rigour, and unexpected creativity that have defined his journey at Moncler. He shares how working for one of fashion’s most technically demanding and culturally relevant brands has pushed him to grow not only as a designer but also as a thinker, collaborator, and creative strategist.
How would you describe Moncler in three words?
Innovative, challenging, for outdoor lovers.
How has your role within the brand evolved since you joined?
Since I joined Moncler, I have been working at the highest level I have ever experienced. Every detail is extremely curated, and each garment is designed to last forever. Before reaching the market, every single sample undergoes multiple tests, and we must adhere to these standards. I have also had the opportunity to work on various exciting projects, including the main collection, Moncler Genius and the Chinese New Year collection. This experience has significantly enhanced my creative and technical skills.
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What challenges have you faced in your journey?
We often say that the main challenge is to be creative while also driving sales. I think this should be the primary challenge for every creative professional. Working for a big company like Moncler also involves close collaboration with merchandisers and analysing sales data—an area I had not explored as much before, but am now more involved in. Sometimes fashion designers overlook this aspect, and I think it’s a big mistake.
What’s been the turning point in your career, and what did you learn from it?
I can’t point to a single pivotal moment in my career, as it’s been a journey filled with many highs and lows. What I have learned is the importance of being strong, believing in yourself, and adapting to the challenges you face.
How would you describe Moncler’s approach to creativity and innovation compared to more traditional luxury brands?
Interestingly, luxury brands are typically associated with items such as bags or shoes. However, Moncler has been the first to redefine the puffer jacket as a statement piece, creating an entire wardrobe around it. Moncler is very lucky because it is one of the few brands I know that has the heritage of a unique subculture, the “Paninari,” who exclusively wore Moncler jackets. This group had a distinctive take on preppy style, and we are now exploring how to design for a modern “Paninari,” which is very fun. In addition, Moncler collaborates with some of the industry’s best creatives for the Moncler Genius project, including Jonathan Anderson, Rick Owens, Pharrell Williams, Craig Green, and Jil Sander, among others. Also, Moncler Grenoble, the brand’s skiing line, offers the highest-performance gear.
What’s the most inspiring or ground-breaking project you’ve been a part of?
I think my most memorable experience has been working with Donald Glover, aka Childish Gambino, on his personal Moncler Genius collection. We travelled to Los Angeles to his brand-new farm, “Gilga Farm,” where he’s growing orange trees. We drew inspiration from the farm and the artist’s lifestyle. The collection was presented in Shanghai for the Genius Event last November and will be available in stores this June. The best part of working for a fashion company like Moncler is that all the dreams I had as a student can come true; nothing is impossible if you truly want it.
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What opportunities do you think Moncler provides for young professionals wanting to build a career in fashion?
We offer several internships, and since I joined, our teams have been growing. We are also moving to a larger headquarters very soon.
What advice would you give to students who want to apply for a role?
Dare to be unique, and remember that your next employer expects you to create products that sell!
Silvia Tarini
Editor, Milan