Hogan's "Summer in the City" Blooms as Della Valle Family Invests in Tod's Group's Future

Against a backdrop of renewed sunshine, following days of overcast skies and heavy rain, Milan Fashion Week found its vibrant energy on Wednesday, September 25. This change in weather perfectly complemented Hogan’s unveiling of its “Summer in the City” collection. Hosted within the brand’s showroom, the space itself was transformed into a lush, dynamic oasis, adorned with brightly colored plants and flowers, setting an inviting scene for the season’s new offerings.

The upcoming summer collection, embodying an urban-chic ethos, introduces several standout pieces. A key highlight is the resurgence of the Hogan Athletic sneaker, presented as a sleek, modern reimagining of classic sprinter styles. This design expertly marries sporty dynamism with a touch of retro sophistication. Alongside these, the collection features contemporary cup-sole styles, drawing inspiration from skate shoes, crafted in fine nappa leather and accented with bold pop-red detailing. Another notable footwear entry is the Hogan Cool, characterized by its high, enveloping sole which pairs a refined upper with a distinctly chunky build, offering a modern silhouette.

Beyond footwear, Hogan’s new accessory line also impresses. Among the featured bags is the Script Address logo, a versatile shopping tote designed to transition effortlessly from professional settings to evening aperitifs. Additionally, the collection includes elegant flap bags, distinguished by an iconic “H” clasp, blending functionality with distinct brand identity.

The Milan showcase served as more than just a product launch; it was an opportune moment to engage with Andrea Della Valle, president of Hogan. The discussion extended beyond the new collection to encompass his broader vision for the future of the Tod’s Group. Under the joint leadership of Andrea and his brother Diego, the group stands as a significant entity in Italian luxury, boasting a prestigious portfolio that includes Tod’s, Hogan, Fay, and Roger Vivier.

Andrea Della Valle articulated a profound philosophy centered on long-term stewardship. “From my point of view, when you run a company with thousands of employees, you must safeguard it with a long-term vision, to protect them and what has been built with such dedication over the decades,” he explained. This commitment extends to a strategic investment in the next generation. He proudly highlighted the growing involvement of younger family members within the group: his eldest daughter, Allegra, manages the crucial Chinese market for Hogan from Shanghai; his son, Leonardo, leads the French haute couture house Schiaparelli (acquired by the Della Valle family through a private holding company); and Diego’s son, Filippo, is based in Tokyo, working for Tod’s. “We practically have a young person on every brand,” Della Valle remarked, emphasizing, “For us, this is an investment in tomorrow.”

Looking ahead, 2026 will mark a significant milestone for Hogan as it celebrates its 40th anniversary. This occasion will be commemorated with a strategic plan for targeted global expansion, including new flagship store openings anticipated in key markets like Riyadh and Dubai. Furthermore, Hogan is poised for a significant return to the United States market after an absence of over three decades. Della Valle reflected on the brand’s pioneering spirit: “We were visionaries then, when—going firmly against the trend—we launched the first urban sneaker; today we are continuing a journey that began three decades ago.” He affirmed a commitment to cautious but steady consolidation, indicating potential future collaborations, though strictly with partners possessing a “strong history,” alongside new brand-extension projects.

In terms of current performance, Andrea Della Valle concluded by noting that “The year’s results will close with slight growth, driven mainly by Europe, China, and the Far East, markets that remain central for Hogan.” This underlines the brand’s continued strength and strategic focus on its primary geographical drivers.

Ultimately, the Tod’s Group, guided by the Della Valle family, reinforces its trajectory of consistent growth. This enduring success is underpinned by a forward-thinking vision that skillfully integrates tradition with innovation, placing solidity, the cultivation of new generations, and the global promotion of "Made in Italy" at the very core of its strategic outlook.