Steve McCurry Captures Stefano Ricci’s Vision
Steve McCurry Captures Stefano Ricci’s Vision in India: A Journey Through Time and Texture
For decades, Steve McCurry has been synonymous with visual storytelling, his lens capturing the essence of human experience with an unparalleled depth. Now, the legendary photographer turns his gaze toward Stefano Ricci, the Florentine luxury menswear house, for its Spring 2026 campaign, an evocative exploration of India’s rich cultural tapestry.
Stefano Ricci’s latest collection, part of its SR Explorer series, unfolds across the landscapes of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, where imperial palaces, bustling spice markets, and centuries-old craftsmanship serve as the backdrop for a wardrobe that embodies regal elegance. Over ten days, McCurry retraced familiar paths—his lens having documented the Indian subcontinent for nearly five decades—reinterpreting iconic moments through the Stefano Ricci aesthetic.
Among the campaign’s most striking images is a recreation of McCurry’s famed Jodhpur street scene, where red sari-clad women once stood against the city’s cobalt walls. In this new vision, a Stefano Ricci model dons a cream-white relaxed suit, crafted from Alpha yarn, a rare wool exclusive to the brand. The collection itself is a study in contrasts: smooth velvet tuxedos with silk trims, stand-up collars inspired by Indian formalwear, and silk jackets in hues reminiscent of Jaipur’s Hawa Mahal.
Beyond fashion, the campaign carries a deeper resonance. Stefano Ricci has partnered with India’s Centre for Wildlife Studies, supporting conservation efforts for the country’s endangered tiger population. This initiative aligns with the brand’s ongoing commitment to preserving cultural and natural heritage wherever its SR Explorer missions take it.
McCurry’s images do more than showcase garments—they tell a story of movement, tradition, and modernity converging in a single frame. His ability to capture fleeting moments of humanity transforms Stefano Ricci’s campaign into something more than fashion photography; it becomes a visual dialogue between past and present.
As the SR Explorer series continues, Stefano Ricci embraces a philosophy that extends beyond aesthetics. It is a pursuit of excellence, a commitment to storytelling, and an ode to the places and cultures that shape the modern gentleman. This collaboration with McCurry is not only a celebration of craftsmanship—it is an homage to a world where heritage and contemporary vision coexist seamlessly.
