A Journey to the Roots of Zegna: Johnell’s Visit to Italy’s Legendary Textile Mills
This past month, I had the extraordinary privilege of visiting the iconic Zegna textile mills in Trivero, nestled in the serene Biella region of northern Italy. As someone who has long admired the craftsmanship and innovation behind Zegna, walking through the birthplace of the brand was not only inspiring—it was humbling.
From the moment I stepped into the Lanificio Zegna mill, I felt the weight of more than a century of heritage. This isn’t just where fabric is made; it’s where luxury is born. Watching the process unfold—from raw wool to finished cloth—was mesmerizing. Every fiber, every thread, is treated with the kind of care that speaks volumes about the brand’s commitment to excellence. It’s no wonder Zegna continues to be a cornerstone of fine menswear, year after year.
While the history was impressive, what struck me most was Zegna’s relentless forward momentum. Touring the studio where the Spring/Summer 2026 (SS26) collection is coming to life gave me a glimpse into the future of menswear. The SS26 line embraces a clean, minimalist aesthetic that’s deeply rooted in nature and craftsmanship. The silhouettes are fluid, the fabrics are feather-light, and the palette reflects the earthy tones of the Oasi Zegna landscape itself. It’s modern elegance with a soulful connection to the land—precisely what today’s gentleman is looking for.
Speaking of the land, one of the highlights of my trip was hiking along Ermenegildo Zegna’s favorite trail, a path that winds through the lush forests and rolling hills of Oasi Zegna. This natural reserve, created by Zegna himself nearly a century ago, is more than a scenic backdrop—it’s a living legacy. As we hiked, we passed by rows of towering trees, each one planted as part of Zegna’s reforestation project. To see them thriving was powerful. It reminded me that true luxury is not just about what you wear—it’s about how you live, and the responsibility we carry to preserve beauty for future generations.
As we prepare to bring the SS26 collection to our clients in Red Bank, I do so with a deeper appreciation for the story behind each piece. These garments aren’t just tailored—they’re cultivated. Grown from a vision of excellence and nurtured by generations of passion.
If you’ve ever worn Zegna, you know the difference. But after walking the mill floors and hiking those trails, I can tell you: the difference isn’t just in how it feels. It’s in where it comes from. Zegna is not just a brand we carry at Garmany; it’s a philosophy we believe in.