Cristiano di Thiene is the company that produces and markets the Aeronautica Militare brand. Its roots go back to the 1940s, when Cristiano Sperotto, then a young tailor with a strong passion for flying, founded his company with the intention of creating fabric and leather garments of the highest quality. His enthusiasm for aviation soon led him to make leather jackets for the pilots of the Frecce Tricolori, an intuition that would profoundly mark the brand’s identity.
This vision was joined by his sons, Armando Pio and Paolo, who inherited a passion for tailoring, an entrepreneurial sense and a love of flying. It is the beginning of a path that will lead the Aeronautica Militare brand to become a recognised and globally distributed reference point.
Today, the collections are presented as complete total looks, in which accessories play a fundamental role in defining the style. The first accessories project, which marked the brand’s entry into this segment, was the redesign of the helmet bag and the iconic pilots’ flight boots: two items that are and will remain emblems of Aeronautica Militare’s identity. We talk about this with Rosanna Sofia Pedone, Head of Womenswear Style at Cristiano di Thiene Spa.
How did your journey within Cristiano di Thiene begin?
I feel part of a great team. I joined Cristiano di Thiene when I was very young, driven by a passion for clothing and image that has accompanied me since I was a child. With my intuition and creativity I have contributed, over the years, to the evolution and renewal of the collections. Those who know me describe me as a visionary, an aesthete, a passionate person. I do not like to talk about myself: I prefer projects, ideas and results to speak for me and products to tell our world.
What is the brand identity?
Despite the process of industrialisation, the company’s artisan identity remains strong, based on attention to detail, love for the product and uncompromising quality, increasingly geared to offering the best to the end customer. We live in a complex historical moment, in which everything is fashion but nothing is fashion, in which everything is clothing but identity is often lacking. In this scenario, Aeronautica Militare stands out as a brand that communicates authentic values through clothes and accessories inspired by the world of flight, our Air Force and its ideals.
How is your vision of the future characterised?
Clothing is evolving, influenced by issues such as sustainability, technological innovation, choice of raw materials and new consumer demands. The role of the designer is to intercept these changes, interpret them and transform them into functional and appealing products. It is an exciting challenge, which pushes us every day to look forward with passion and determination. In a changing world, however, our style remains authentic, courageous, and able to fly as high as those who wear it.
What characterises the Aeronautica Militare women’s line?
The Aeronautica Militare women’s shoe collection combines trendy design and functionality, offering models for every season and occasion. From leather lace-up boots perfect for tackling the colder months, to suede and nylon trainers with coloured details ideal for a casual and dynamic look. Summer slippers, light and comfortable, alternate with spring canvas shoes designed to add freshness to your outfits. For those looking for a mix of elegance and practicality, ankle boots and trainers offer versatile and comfortable solutions. The footwear line is completed with matching bags and accessories that tell the Aeronautica Militare style. Quality materials, distinctive details and military inspirations are found in every model, offering the perfect combination of tradition and innovation.
