Federica Cavenati

Federica 'Kika' Cavenati was an Italian fashion designer and the co-founder of the London-based label 16Arlington. A graduate of the Istituto Marangoni, she launched the brand in 2017 with her partner Marco Capaldo, quickly establishing it as a go-to label for modern, high-glamour eveningwear. Her career was marked by a vibrant and energetic approach to design, which resonated with a global audience of celebrities and fashion insiders alike.

Cavenati's role in the industry was defined by her contribution to the 'party-wear' revival, bringing a sense of fun to the contemporary luxury market. Her untimely death in 2021 was widely mourned by the fashion community, who remembered her for her creative spirit and her significant impact on the London fashion scene. Her legacy continues through the brand's ongoing success.

The 'fun of dressing up' served as the foundational principle for Federica Cavenati, whose work celebrated female confidence through high-octane glamour. Her design ethos was rooted in the juxtaposition of maximalist textures—most notably ostrich feathers and crystals—with more relaxed, contemporary silhouettes. This approach sought to demystify eveningwear, making opulence feel both accessible and effortless. The primary formal concern was the emotional impact of the garment, with a focus on how clothing can empower the wearer.

The treatment of the body was often assertive yet easy, blending Italian high-glamour with a 'cool-girl' attitude that felt uniquely suited to London's creative scene. Materiality was central to her work, with a preference for tactile surfaces that caught the light and created movement. Recurring signals included sharp mini-dresses and embellished separates that challenged the formality of traditional eveningwear. By prioritising a sense of playfulness and self-assurance, Cavenati ensured that her designs remained grounded in the lived experience.