Milan fashion week SS13 came and went at a blink of an eye and I think it was when everybody started to go down with the usual change of weather colds and flu (a discreet, but hasty grab for the packet of throat lozenges stashed in your ONLY Missoni bag).
The Dolce and Gabanna collection was particularly exciting and sassy, the bold Roman centurion print designs induced a feeling of much needed optimism for the Italian economy after its recent battering. Most of the designs and collection sought inspiration from bright, primary coloured platform height sandals, bold hair pieces such as matching printed scarves and woven bucket bags with fringed twists. The enthusiastic colour palette was in some instances balanced out by the colour white .The skirts were mainly high waisted and in a vase shape based on an intricate basket-type structure, some were woven in to corsets - can you imagine the level of technicality that went in to producing such master pieces ? The tops had squared shoulders and the accessory earrings were all over-sized, slightly cuba-esq. Miniature pom pom tassels induced a little fun and frivolity to the outfits. Each exotic statue-esq mannequin looking model had delicate eye make up with a slight feline feel. The model's hair was shiny and tied back in order to show off the satin scarves. Some of the scarves looked a little like the Moschino designs of the late 90s but a lot less gaudy. Some of the ribbons were used from crepe style fabrics and all the floral embellishments dazzled us in to delightful appreciation. Silk, cotton, linen and wicker was used and every now again a flowing, long sleeved Sicilian style striped 'all in one' would turn up to tone down the vivid mass of colour, prints and accessories. This fun and quintessentially Dolce Vita collection had the crowds clapping, standing and cheering. Speaking of Dolce Vita I think it's time for a glass of Prosecco.
Written by Monica P. Cummings, Ba Hons., MA (Fashion Thirst)