This season, embark on an adventure with the GUESS Marine capsule collection, filled with timelessly stylish menswear. This maritime-inspired collection draws inspiration from the iconic adventure and fantasy comic series, Corto Maltese, whose Italian licensing program is managed by Maurizio Distefano Licensing agency

Created by celebrated Venetian designer Hugo Pratt in 1967, Corto Maltese is the protagonist of stories and adventures around the world and the subject of watercolors, black and white sketches and pages of graphic novels. The famous cartoon character is also a real literary myth of the twentieth century. He is a traveler, an ironic sailor who combines Mediterranean appearance and character with an Anglo-Saxon culture. Corto is an anti-hero who prefers freedom and imagination to wealth, he is a modern Ulysses able to make us travel to the most fascinating places in the world.

There are 33 Corto Maltese stories in total, of varying lengths. They are characterized by the presence of precise historical references, consistent geographical notations and in-depth characterization of the characters, elements that make it suitable for all those who love adventure and escapism.

Paul Marciano, Chief Creative Officer of GUESS, explains what drew him to the iconic character: “Corto Maltese was chosen for this capsule because he reflects the alluring and adventurous spirit of GUESS. He is elegant, intriguing and cultured. I have always enjoyed Pratt’s beautiful watercolors, which are true works of art; it has been a pleasure to bring together Corto Maltese with GUESS.”

This iconic capsule collection includes select pieces with drawings of Corto Maltese and his adventurous, alongside other items that borrow iconic style codes from the seafarer’s wardrobe and maritime lifestyle. This confidently masculine capsule by GUESS features versatile, high-tech outerwear with full and half-zip designs, trench collars, maritime insignia and accents taken from the Corto Maltese graphic novel series. Classic Bretagne stripes, cable knit, and nautical motifs enhance an array of comfortable layers with contemporary silhouettes, finished in a palette of muted mustard, ocean navy, salt white, lobster red, muted stone and horizon blue. The ultra-trendy cropped chino and jeans complement the look, along with the must-have fisherman beanie, available in key color options.

The deal was managed by the agency Maurizio Distefano Licensing, who is responsible for Corto Maltese’s Italian licensing program. Maurizio Distefano, President of MDL agency positively commented: “We are very glad that GUESS picked Corto Maltese as protagonist of its capsule collection, GUESS is one of the most famous fashion brands WW and Corto Maltese has travelled so much overseas during the years that it became part of our cultural baggage. We are sure that this amazing collection will give to all parts involved great satisfaction and rewards.”

A powerful 3D video animation that combines cartoon and real-life imagery of Corto Maltese and clean, crisp, renderings of the new GUESS collection has also been launched as part of the brand’s ADV campaign. Visitors to the online store will also be assisted by a dynamic, avatar dressed in the various looks from the new collection.

The ideal collection for the GUESS man on his travels, this exclusive capsule is priced from €70 to €260 for tees, shirts, bombers, outerwear, sweaters, denim, chinos and hats.

The collection will be available both in selected GUESS stores and on www.guess.eu from the beginning of February.