Covering one’s couch in plastic may seem like a strange practice to some, though it will likely invoke nostalgia in those who were raised with one wrapped in their home. Plastic covered couches - a mainstay in many an immigrant household - showcased a family’s appreciation for the things they owned. Household furniture treated like a priceless work of art is a specific form of voyeurism that says, “We came from nothing, and now we have something. And you can be sure we’ll let no one spoil it.”

Libero, a fast-rising brand from Toronto, has invoked pillars of family, loyalty, and tradition for their latest capsule, “Plastic Covered Couches”. 

Frosinone, Italy. The history-rich outskirts of Rome. Toronto, Canada. A younger skyline, providing shade for innumerable cultures. Drawing inspiration from his multi-continental roots, creative director Adam Appugliesi pays homage to his Italian heritage as well as Libero’s hometown. This capsule is the first drop within a greater collection titled “This Thing Of Ours” - or Cosa Nostra in Italian. Historically, the term could refer to the creation of the modern Mafia - it was "their thing", "their own thing" that they created.

A staunch commitment to the ways of old. Plenty of food for all guests. An unhinged amount of espresso. Plastic covered couches. These elements are only furthered by Appugliesi’s parents modeling each piece. Italian immigrants themselves, they exude class and a self-assured presence.

Blindingly nostalgic in design, Libero sources materials transcendental of time period and appends them to timeless silhouettes. Strafing the line between standout and accessible isn’t easy - Libero makes it look so. 

Goombah Shirt

“Unique au monde!” - one of a kind.

A Goombah speaks for himself, as does this shirt. Cut wide from a vivid patterned silk, the shirt draws from an Italian heritage, showcasing the rich culture from which this collection derives its inspiration. 

Seven of Swords Cardigan

Old school, green graphics make an appearance throughout this capsule and here, the familiar “Seven of Swords” tarot card design is splashed across the back of a brushed cotton and moleskin cardigan. The prominent graphic is composed of 40,000 stitches, coinciding with the words “No Fugazi, Cash Only” embroidered across the heart. While the Seven of Swords, in general, is said to be about betrayal and deception, Libero is nothing if not authentic.

Stained Glass Windows Jacket

Like peeking through a church window. As they’ve proven over the course of two collections, crafting head-turning outerwear is a Libero specialty - it’s no small feat, imparting wearability to a pattern this eccentric. A classic silhouette tames things, while still elevating any look. 

Libero’s Linguine Tee

Endearing, nostalgic, and a distillation of the capsule at hand. Each tee Libero releases captures the essence of its current collection (see the Phys-Ed tee from their last high-school influenced drop). If Libero operated a restaurant, this would be it - always al dente. 

Le Mans Jacket

The iconic Le Mans reenters the fold, this time in a not-a-cloud-in-the-sky blue. A flagship piece for Libero, the Le Mans jacket showcases Appugliesi’s talent for paying homage to the themes which inspire him. Deriving its name from the legendary 1971 film, he sensibly pairs Steve McQueen’s swagger with classic racing details, all compacted into a Melton wool package.

Each of the pieces included in the Plastic Covered Couches capsule will be available online November 4th on Libero’s site. Look out for additional releases from the brand as This Thing Of Ours comes to fruition.

“No Fugazi, Cash Only”.