As we know, Milan was hit hard from the COVID-19 crisis early on, forcing immediate shut-downs and a national quarantine. Many Italian designers used this moment for reflection on not only what was important to their lives, but also the lives of their brands and the women who wear them.
“During this year marked by the COVID pandemic, fashion has demonstrated, despite the struggles that lay before us, a great sense of heart, strength, and unity,” said Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana president Carlo Capasa.
Below, standout looks from a historic Milan Fashion Week.
Versace
Donatella Versace’s collection took inspiration from the depths of Atlantis. The live streamed show imagined models in the mythical underwater city’s ruins, with slicked hair and sea motifs. The sparkling starfish and seashells were a nod to Gianni Versace’s 1992 collection, bringing a nostalgic feel to the vibrant designs.
Models like Precious Lee looked absolutely smokin’ hot in the brand’s signature bright, neon aquatic prints.
Prada
There was lots to choose from in the collection, but the coats were a real standout. Models clutched them much like Mrs. Prada has been known to do herself, with the sleeves rolled up, as she also tends to style her personal uniform.
Fendi
Silvia Venturini was inspired by a familiar view from lockdown — a window onto the outside world — and also referenced domestic materials like linen tablecloths and bedding.
Prints on breezy, sheer fabric resembled curtains with an afternoon shadow cast on them.
A translucent lilac dress was accentuated with delicate embroidery and a contrasting bodysuit for this eye-catching look.
Valentino
With fewer red carpets and occasions for wearing Designer Pierpaolo Piccioli colorful, showstopping gowns these days, he translated the style to a bright, oversize shirt this season.
A cape dress offers an effortless transition from Valentino’s minimalistic looks into ethereal eveningwear. Dramatic fringe references the collection’s bohemian influence.
A fiery, ruffle-adorned gown floated down the runway. The stunning formalwear personified the brand’s twist on sophisticated silhouettes.
Here, decorative accessories add edge to a vibrant orange shift.
BOSS
For Boss’ latest collection, Director Ingo Wilts infused the label’s trademark tailoring with a new sense of ease. This sleek and comfortable suit paired with chunky white sandals made for ice blue silk perfection.
A black tracksuit layered over a turtleneck was paired with black sandals and an ice blue handbag.
A white bra top and matching skirt and coat made for a simple yet stunning summer look.
Salvatore Ferragamo
Paul Andrew spent time in quarantine watching classic Hitchcock thrillers like The Birds and Vertigo, which became inspirations for his 2021 collection. Accompanied by a suspense-building short film by Luca Guadagnino, the runway displayed ensembles worth any Hitchcock heroine.
Throughout the collection, Ferragamo’s craft is highlighted. Here, a handspun skirt gives a fringe-like effect.
Even though this next look is for men, anyone would love a lemon-sorbet summer knit.
A masculine bomber jacket paired with a flared skirt for a sporty look.
A high-collared trench coat styled with white gloves, square toe heels, and a leather handbag, this look means business.
MSGM
Here, MSGM mixed masculine fits with feminine ruffles for an eye-catching ensemble.
Tod’s
Since creative director Walter Chiapponi joined the historic Italian accessories brand last year, he’s brought a youthful energy and color to the collections.
A very unique look was a vest with no shirt underneath, plus bright, casual pants tucked into equally fun socks.
By: Hala AlZoubi