Loro Piana’s First Exhibition Just Opened at Shanghai’s Pudong Museum

In celebration of its 100th anniversary, Loro Piana has unveiled its first exhibition, If You Know, You Know. Loro Piana’s Quest for Excellence, at the Museum of Art Pudong (MAP) in Shanghai. The exhibit, which runs until May 5, marks a milestone for the maison. It also marks a first for Loro Piana as it becomes the first luxury house to be showcased at the renowned museum. This immersive experience takes visitors through Loro Piana’s storied heritage, century-long pursuit of the highest-quality materials and craftsmanship, as well as its deep ties to China, the cradle of cashmere.

Curated by renowned fashion and museology professor Judith Clark, the exhibit offers a sensory journey into the world of Loro Piana, blending documentary displays with tactile installations. Spanning over almost 11,000 square feet (1,000 square meters) and three galleries, the exhibition is divided into several thematic sections, each one delving into the unique aspects of Loro Piana’s legacy. From its founding in Valsesia, Italy, the exhibit traces the brand’s evolution, with historical photos, rare fabrics, and intricate garments illuminating the family’s dedication to innovation and craftsmanship.

Among the highlights are The Landscapes, where miniature models of regions like the Andes, China, and New Zealand provide context for the rare fibers sourced from these areas, including cashmere and vicuña. A series of breathtaking couture silhouettes showcases the luxurious textiles in dramatic forms, while a white-tiled laboratory illustrates the painstaking process behind quality control, including an up-close look at baby cashmere fibers that have been magnified 35,000 times.

In addition to its fashion-focused displays, the exhibition pays tribute to Loro Piana’s craftsmanship and innovation, emphasizing its long-standing commitment to superior quality and luxury. Pieces like The Gifts of Kings fabric and heirloom Merino wool garments are on display, encapsulating the maison‘s dedication to sourcing the finest materials. A section dedicated to the thistle motif—Loro Piana’s symbol of softness—features exquisite works of art, including a hand-embroidered hoop skirt that required eight embroiderers, 1,000 hours of work, 124,000 glass beads, and 59,000 sequins.

Loro Piana’s centennial exhibition is an unforgettable celebration of luxury, craftsmanship, and tradition, offering a rare, sensory glimpse into the legacy of one of Italy’s most storied brands that is not to be missed.

Credit: robbreport.com