News DeskRiyadh, Saudi Arabia – The iconic Italian fashion house Roberto Cavalli made a notable appearance at the WWD Global Fashion Summit held at the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) Conference Center in Riyadh. Represented by Fausto Puglisi, the brand’s Global Creative Director, Roberto Cavalli participated in a pivotal panel discussion focused on the region’s dynamic fashion landscape.
Puglisi contributed his insights to the panel titled “Unlocking the Power of Storytelling in Today’s Attention Economy,” which examined strategies for brands to engage with a new generation of digitally-native consumers. This theme is particularly relevant to Cavalli, given the brand’s recognition of the burgeoning Saudi Arabian market, driven by its youthful demographic and strong digital adoption.
“It is pleasing to see how global fashion is interspersed into the fabric of the Middle East landscape, blending harmoniously with the local culture and heritage. The strength of the emerging fashion ecosystem in Saudi Arabia is that it is being led by Gen Z designers and aspirant brands born in a digital age,” said Puglisi. “We are excited to have been a part of this revolution and to contribute our experience in crafting a powerful brand narrative.”
Roberto Cavalli has a storied history of embracing emerging markets and cultural influences. Puglisi’s involvement at the summit marks a significant milestone for the luxury brand, underscoring Cavalli’s dedication to the expanding luxury fashion market in the GCC region. His visit aligns with the region’s growing appetite for luxury fashion and inclusivity.
Under Puglisi’s leadership, Roberto Cavalli is undergoing a renaissance, with the brand focusing on empowering individuality, redefining luxury, providing seamless shopping experiences across all channels, and strategically expanding its retail presence in the US, EMEA, and the Middle East.
Puglisi’s creative direction, which marries refined cultural influences with a vibrant and distinctive style, has won international acclaim. His collections, celebrated for their modern and sensual aesthetic, have been worn by global celebrities including Nicki Minaj, M.I.A., Jennifer Lopez, Katy Perry, and Madonna. Additionally, he has collaborated with Taylor Swift on her recent tour costumes.
Since its inception 50 years ago, Roberto Cavalli has grown into a global fashion and lifestyle powerhouse. In 2012, the company expanded into home interiors with the launch of Roberto Cavalli Home Collections. Today, the brand’s portfolio includes Junior, Fragrances, Watches, Eyewear, and Just Cavalli collections, all positioned within the luxury segment.
In July 2019, Roberto Cavalli was acquired by Hussain Sajwani, Founder and Chairman of the DAMAC Group. Since the acquisition, the brand has strengthened its presence in the GCC region, continuing its legacy of luxury and innovation.
Roberto Cavalli’s current retail expansion strategy focuses on the US and EMEA regions, with recent store openings in London and Las Vegas. The brand is also actively exploring opportunities in the Middle East, particularly in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, demonstrating its commitment to sustained growth.
Puglisi’s participation in the WWD Global Fashion Summit reaffirms Roberto Cavalli’s commitment to the region’s flourishing fashion scene, marking a significant step in the brand’s ongoing journey in the Middle East.
