Antonio Marras returns to his island roots to deliver the dreamiest fashion film. Inspired by Boccaccio’s description in The Decameron of seeking sanctuary from sickness in nature, the 15-minute video, with a cast of more than 50, was set in Sardinia – an Italian island renowned for its illustrious landscapes.

The Bronze Age UNESCO protected site of Barumini provided an enchanting backdrop for this latest collection and re-telling of the story. A beguiling parade of clothes, nature, and people tells the story of the pilgrims seeking the protection of the mythical queen Nuraxammanna, played with ethereal air by Lia Careddu (actress native to the island) – conjuring an enchanting escape.

“De Innui Ses,” translated to “Where do you come from?” in the Sard dialect, was this collection’s grounding phrase, a quote from the local archaeologist, Giovanni Lilliu, expressed on one of his discoveries. With this collection, Marras unearths his own heritage, building upon a design that has long served him. A seamless fusion of fantasy and Sardinian folklore makes for the mesmerizing lineup.

Models cast as fairies enthrall in the wraps of lavish velvets and jacquard fabrics, brightened with floral intarsia and embroideries. Tartan patterns represent the rebellious traits while elegance is embodied with organza frocks billowing bell sleeves.

The designer is no stranger to artisanal craftsmanship and poetic swaths, creating equally stunning men’s looks, that featured a series of suits shaped from the garments traditionally worn by Sardinian shepherds. Fabrics were pulled from the Canstanglia tailor shop’s archives, dating back to 1850.

Perhaps an ode to the life-enriching landscape, Marras completed this body of work with a mini collection of unisex up-cycled sweaters that will be available for purchase from Feb. 27 at antoniomarras.com.

Watch the Antonio Marras FW21 unveiling below.