Title: Reflecting on Fashion: Milan Runways Embrace Seriousness and Unity Amidst Challenges
The recent Milan Fashion Week marked a departure from gimmicks, as designers took a more introspective approach with their collections. In contrast to bold new directions, the emphasis shifted towards established signatures that resonate with consumers. This reflection was not a celebration of fashion per se but rather an opportunity for introspection and unity.
Top designers such as Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons, Donatella Versace, and industry veteran Giorgio Armani shared sentiments about the power of fashion to bring love, positivity, and togetherness in trying times. Prada and Simons started with a desire for love and goodness, while Versace emphasized the importance of courage and unity. Armani acknowledged that fashion cannot change the world or solve global issues but can offer moments of lightness to people. Matthieu Blazy from Bottega Veneta was most direct, stating that fashion is a human necessity in a world on fire.
Franken-styles emerged as a theme across collections, characterized by hybrid pieces combining different elements. Prada’s wool blazer featured a satin waistcoat at the back, while Bottega Veneta combined and compressed silhouettes from various eras. MSGM introduced zips running around the body like stitches ready to unravel at any point.
Knitwear evolved with more is more approach, featuring cardigans and jumpers draped and layered together. Embellished shoes became the must-have accessory of the season, with Dolce & Gabbana featuring ostrich details and Jil Sander offering stilettos with goat hair coverings. Tod’s new creative director Matteo Tamburini introduced all-over leather tassels to the classic Gommino driving shoe.
The 1980s resurfaced as a trend, with designers like Kim Jones at Fendi and Giorgio Armani referencing the era’s influences. Ferragamo, Tom Ford, Bottega Veneta, Versace, and Diesel embraced long, lean, and embellishment-free styles reminiscent of the Matrix era.
Milan’s designers focused on unconfrontational fashion that offers comfort, protection, and honesty in materiality. The palette was predominantly dark and utilitarian, with olive greens, dark khaki, and beautiful hues from Ferragamo and Tod’s dominating the scene. Denim came clean cut and precisely pressed next season in a double selvedge style.
In summary, Milan Fashion Week emphasized reflection, unity, and human connection as fashion’s role in the world was reassessed. Designers focused on providing comfort, protection, and timeless styles that resonate with consumers while staying true to their brand identities.
