Designer Sophie Lou Jacobsen, renowned for her imaginative glassware, has unveiled her latest "Disco Aperitivo" collection at Milan Design Week 2026. This collection draws inspiration from Milanese aperitivo rituals and the distinctive aesthetic of 1980s Italy. Currently based in Milan, Jacobsen has meticulously developed a range of items that reimagine classic bar accessories with a modern twist, reflecting the city's rich cultural heritage and a revived artistic technique. The collection aims to transport visitors to a bygone era of sophistication and playful glamor, offering a refreshing pause during the bustling design event.
Sophie Lou Jacobsen Channels 80s Milanese Glamor into New Collection
In a creative journey spanning several months, acclaimed glassware designer Sophie Lou Jacobsen, a transient artist often traversing between Paris and New York, established a temporary studio in Milan. Her mission: to immerse herself in the city's celebrated aperitivo culture and infuse its spirit into a brand new collection. This endeavor culminated in the "Disco Aperitivo" collection, launched with much anticipation at Milan Design Week 2026. Jacobsen describes the Milanese aperitivo not merely as a 'happy hour' or 'apéro' but as a deeply embedded daily ritual, appreciating the intricate details from unique snack plates to specialized cocktail glasses.
The collection itself is a nostalgic homage to 1980s Milanese bars. Among its highlights are a whimsical cigarette holder that dramatically fans open its contents, and an ashtray crafted from a solid block of optical glass, featuring a concave center and embedded Swarovski crystals. These crystals create captivating reflections, transforming a functional item into a dazzling objet d'art. The range further extends to include elegantly shaped drinking glasses, each embellished with crystals, alongside intricately patterned glass plates, handwoven silk placemats, and striking copper-enameled trays. Jacobsen's collaboration with a Venetian fabricator has led to the revival of the near-forgotten art of copper enameling, a technique once favored by design luminaries like Ettore Sottsass and Gio Ponti, allowing for the creation of bold, richly colored patterns.
The presentation of this captivating collection will unfold within an intimate, week-long private event at a residence in Milan's vibrant NoLo neighborhood. The apartment, boasting a sprawling terrace with panoramic city views, will be transformed into an exclusive 1980s after-hours lounge. This setting promises guests a momentary escape, an opportunity to enjoy a drink and unwind amidst the dynamic energy of Salone del Mobile, all while experiencing Jacobsen's unique vision of Milanese charm.
Sophie Lou Jacobsen's "Disco Aperitivo" collection not only showcases her remarkable talent for blending sculptural forms with functional design but also serves as a vibrant tribute to Milan's unique cultural tapestry. By resurrecting historical techniques and reinterpreting familiar objects with a playful yet sophisticated touch, Jacobsen invites us to appreciate the artistry in everyday rituals. Her ability to weave together diverse inspirations—from Art Deco geometry to 1980s glamor and traditional Italian craftsmanship—offers a fresh perspective on contemporary design, reminding us that beauty and joy can be found in the most unexpected fusions. It's a testament to the power of design to evoke memory, celebrate culture, and create new experiences.