Bertolini Steps Up to Lead the Design Studio After Being at the Label Since 2019
Ports 1961 has announced the appointment of Francesco Bertolini as its design director. The designer, who has been with the Milan-based label since 2019, is set to debut his first collection for the house for the Spring 2025 season. The unveiling will take place during Milan Fashion Week in September.
The brand, which was reimagined as a creative collective in 2019 under the artistic direction of Karl Templer, parted ways with him after the Spring 2023 fashion show held in September 2022. Since then, the label has not presented any new collections.
I am deeply honoured to lead the design at Ports 1961. I am pleased to contribute my vision to the progression of the brand, which has always embraced and supported my talent. Ports 1961’s dedication to innovation and modernity aligns with my fundamental values.”
Francesco Bertolini
A native of Tuscany, Bertolini honed his skills at prominent fashion houses such as Salvatore Ferragamo, Vionnet, and Prada Group before joining Ports 1961.
The board of the company also expressed its excitement via a statement, saying, “We are delighted to welcome Francesco Bertolini as our new Design Director. Since joining the company in [2019], Francesco has demonstrated his unique ability to reinterpret traditionally defined fabrics and silhouettes, perfectly aligning with the values of the brand. We are proud to see the growth of our in-house talent and we are confident that his vision will enhance and honour the history of our Maison.”
