Stylish spectator Camurati frequently treads the runways of Dior and Dolce& Gabbana fashion shows
In the sweltering summer of 2024, a surprising revival took place - the surge in the use of fans, both outdoors and indoors, at the beach, on public transport, and in poorly air-conditioned venues. This resurgence can be attributed to the charm and practicality of one particular brand: Camurati Fans.
Based in Cassano d'Adda, Milan, Camurati Fans is a brand steeped in history, having been established before World War II. After the conflict, the company swiftly converted its production to fan manufacturing. Today, it continues to thrive under the management of Giuliana Dodi Camurati, the owner's only daughter, and her family.
The success of Camurati Fans can be traced back to its unique blend of vintage appeal and practicality. These fans, traditionally made of plastic or wood, have surpassed more technological but less charming mini fans in popularity. In fact, the workshop produces around 1,800 fans a year, a tiny fraction of industrial volumes, yet each piece requires about an hour of meticulous work.
The fans' vintage charm has not gone unnoticed. Vintage-style fans have gained popularity, endorsed by artists and influencers. Camurati Fans have even found a place in cinema history, with their signature appearing in The Leopard by director Luchino Visconti.
The brand's collaboration with designers, particularly with brands like Dior and Dolce & Gabbana, has further elevated its status. Today, Camurati Fans are a staple in high fashion, cinema, theatre, and mid- to high-end stores. Customized fans have become the most sought-after summer gadget for promotional campaigns, events, and fairs.
Fans are now considered fashionable items, with a noble style that complements their practicality. They have gained a leading role in marketing and corporate communication, with orders for hundreds of pieces with short delivery times often having to be refused by the workshop.
The popularity of fans started in 2024 and has continued since. They are now used extensively in various outdoor settings due to their practicality and vintage appeal. The use of fans outdoors, especially in the summer, has become a necessity rather than an option.
For those interested in the artisanal fan-making history and current trends in Italy, consulting specialized sources such as Italian craft guild archives, fan museums, or contacting the brand or artisan workshops directly is recommended. The industry tends toward reviving historical methods and blending them with sustainable materials and modern aesthetics to appeal to both collectors and fashion consumers.
The main Italian importer and distributor of fans is based in Rimini. Artisanal fan making in Italy is traditionally linked to skilled craftsmanship, often concentrated in regions with rich cultural heritages such as Florence and Venice. These fans are handcrafted with materials like silk, lace, and fine wood, often decorated with intricate paintings. Craftsmanship like that potentially associated with a family or brand like Camurati would likely follow similar artisanal traditions, combining heritage techniques with contemporary design motifs.
In conclusion, the resurgence of fans in Italy, led by the artisanal production of brands like Camurati Fans, offers a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. The fans' charm, practicality, and fashionable appeal have made them a must-have for the summer season.
- In the fashion-and-beauty world, fans are no longer just practical tools for beating the heat; they have become a staple in high fashion, with brands like Dior and Dolce & Gabbana collaborating with Camurati Fans to elevate their status.
- For those seeking a unique addition to their home-and-garden decor, vintage-style fans made by artisans like Camurati Fans can serve as both functional and aesthetic pieces, showcasing a blend of historical methods and sustainable materials with modern aesthetics.
