It takes a certain kind of audacity to build a world—one that struts, dazzles, and refuses to whisper. Philipp Plein has never been one to color inside the lines. With a fashion empire built on maximalism, spectacle, and relentless confidence, the German designer has now set his sights beyond the runway. From couture to crystal-studded residences, Plein is shaping a lifestyle that’s as bold as it is immersive. In this exclusive cover story, we step inside his high-octane universe to explore how he’s translating his fearless aesthetic into luxury hospitality, real estate, and beyond—without losing an ounce of edge.
Resident Media: What elements of your signature aesthetic in fashion have you incorporated into your hospitality ventures?
Philipp Plein: Everything I do, whether in fashion or hospitality, is about making a statement. My signature aesthetic is all about that larger-than-life feel. In the same way I approach fashion, I want the experiences in my hotels and restaurants to be unforgettable—bold designs, edgy details, and a sense of exclusivity. My spaces are not just places to stay or eat—they’re places to feel alive, to be surrounded by luxury and art in a way that feels empowering and authentic.
How do you envision the Philipp Plein experience translating beyond fashion into hotels and restaurants?
The Philipp Plein experience is a lifestyle, a mindset. When people think of Philipp Plein, I want them to think of confidence, fearless extravagance, and fun. With my hospitality ventures, the goal is to bring that same energy, the same 'wow' factor, into every corner. It's about creating an environment where people can live the brand, not just wear it. The experience is multi-sensory—from the bold designs to the exceptional service, I want people to feel like they’re stepping into a world that reflects their best selves.
What have been the biggest challenges in entering the hospitality industry compared to fashion?
Hospitality is an entirely different ball game, but that’s what excites me. The biggest challenge has been translating the same level of attention to detail and creativity I have in fashion into a physical space. Fashion is predominantly about the garments—the cut, the design—but with hospitality, it’s about the atmosphere, the experience. It's not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good. It’s been an interesting learning curve, but that’s what makes it so rewarding at the end.
What was the inspiration behind the MFW FW 2025 collection?
The FW25 collection has taken inspiration from the Wild West, highlighting the brand’s daring style and vision of modernity. This season, the collection takes Cowboy Couture to a new level, embracing style that remains casual yet playful during the day whilst being elevated and bold throughout the evening wear. Pops of nostalgia are implemented through the use of the retro-American Flag, patterned into garments, enhancing the statement that PHILIPP PLEIN is known for. Mirrored across the collection is the brand’s understanding of dramatic luxury embedded into the country chic collection. Clean tailoring is met with rich hues of red, vibrant greens and blues, creating a trail ablaze for the runway.
You’ve built a reputation for shows that are more than just fashion—they’re full-scale spectacles. How do you continue to push boundaries in your presentations?
There is always an opportunity to make the next experience bigger and better. We’ve loved pushing boundaries across what a fashion show is, because at the end of the day, Philipp Plein is not just a clothing brand, it really is a lifestyle experience. We have continually tapped into the cultural moment to not only reflect but challenge the trends and trajectories of the fashion industry, while keeping it within the Plein standard; maximal, exciting, and innovative.
How do you see the Philipp Plein brand evolving in the next five years?
The brand will continue to foster a sense of community with our customers, with eyes on vast category expansion while deepening our range across those already offered. We are planning to roll out more residences and hospitality spaces in places including Albania, Dubai, Monaco and Miami, while placing additional emphasis on our timepieces, fragrance, and lifestyle options alike.
Are there any upcoming collaborations or projects you’re particularly excited about?
We are very excited to continue to see the Plein universe grow, through new properties and hospitality concepts across the world. Tapping into key markets, such as Miami, we look to reinforce ourselves as a fixture of the luxury market while expanding the Philipp Plein experience.
How would you describe the “World of Plein”?
The 'World of Plein' is a world where everything is big, bold, and unapologetic. It’s a world where luxury meets art, where we push boundaries and challenge expectations. It’s about creating unforgettable experiences that make people feel like they are living in the moment. From fashion to hospitality to everything we do, it’s about being true to yourself and living life with no limits.
How do you maintain exclusivity and luxury while growing the brand’s reach across fashion, hospitality, and beyond?
Exclusivity is in the DNA of the brand. As we’ve grown over the years, I’ve made sure that we stay true to our roots and consistently deliver the Plein experience on a global scale. We keep this mindset at the forefront and ensure every new venture feels like a natural extension of our core values. I don’t just want to reach more people; I want to make sure we make a lasting impact on those we do reach.
What’s one rule you live by when it comes to business and creativity?
Never compromise. In business, in creativity, in life—it’s all about staying true to your vision and your values. People might try to steer you in different directions, but if you know who you are and what you stand for, there’s nothing that can stop you. Always push boundaries, always challenge the status quo, and never settle for less.
You’ve successfully expanded your brand globally. What’s next for Philipp Plein and where are you focusing on expansion?
The brand will continue to foster a sense of community with our customers, with eyes on vast category expansion while deepening our range across those already offered. We are planning to roll out more residences and hospitality spaces in places including Albania, Dubai, Monaco and Miami, while placing additional emphasis on our timepieces, fragrance, and lifestyle options alike.
You own homes in some of the most stunning locations—from the U.S. to Europe. What do you love most about each place?
There are currently four residences where I split time; a primary residence in Lago de Lugano, Switzerland, a Bel Air mansion in Los Angeles that is nearing completion in early 2025, a villa “La Jungle du Roi” in Cannes, and an Upper East Side Townhouse in New York City. I love how each location gives me the opportunity to experience a different section of life, bringing my family to New York for a sense of city life, or calm in Cannes.
Does each location inspire you creatively in different ways?
Each residence has its own design story, reflecting the surrounding environment while providing a space of calm and concentration. Since the Philipp Plein brand has a global presence and is celebrated for my non-conformist style, we often travel as a team to work and create special collections all over the world. We often activate in each location for special events, Oscar’s Night in Los Angeles, Cruise Collections are shown in Cannes, we host special cocktails in New York across NYFW, and each event reflects a different extension of my personality and interest.
Has becoming a father influenced your creativity or vision for the brand in any way?
Absolutely. Fatherhood has given me a new perspective. It’s a huge motivator. It’s made me want to create things that will stand the test of time, that will mean something not just now but for generations to come. Being a father has also taught me the importance of balance—working hard but also making time for what matters most.
What’s one lesson from fatherhood that has surprised you the most?
One lesson that has surprised me is just how much patience it takes. I’ve always been someone who goes after what I want, full speed ahead, but with kids, it’s different. You learn that things take time, and that’s okay. It’s about nurturing, guiding, and sometimes stepping back and letting things unfold naturally. It’s a beautiful challenge, and it’s taught me more about the process than I ever expected.
As Philipp Plein continues to blur the lines between fashion, lifestyle, and experiential design, his empire becomes less a brand and more a state of mind—an unapologetic invitation to live larger, bolder, and with unapologetic flair. Whether through a cowboy-chic runway spectacle or a hospitality concept carved into a Monaco skyline, he’s not just building places to see and be seen—he’s crafting entire worlds to be felt. And for Plein, that world is just getting started.