The title of most spectacular show at Milan fashion week has to go to Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, who not only dazzled the style set with their dominatrix-themed collection but pulled off the biggest coup in luring Gisele Bundchen back to the catwalk for the first time in five years.
The Brazilian bombshell, who officially retired from the international runway scene in 2001, was not due to make an appearance in Italy's fashion capital, but decided to do so as a favour to her talented pals. "I live in sneakers and flip-flops these days, and I do more walking with my dogs than on the catwalk, so I had to do some practice to get used to high heels again," admitted the 26-year-old.
She had photographers in a frenzy as she hit the runway - watched from the sidelines by new beau Tom Brady - in a series of gowns ranging from a gold ruched number to a showstopping glittery column dress, both cinched at the waist with wide metal corsets.
The D&G extravaganza wasn't the only collection to stand out on Thursday. Britain's Matthew Williamson completed his third show for Florentine label Emilio Pucci, delivering a Seventies inspired collection of psychedelic prints, and opting - like Roberto Cavalli - for some distinctly un-wintry hues.
Block colour coats and jersey dresses in daffodil yellow, hot orange and fuchsia pink made a bright change from the seasonal blacks and greys while even tights got the hot hued treatment. The instantly recognisable Pucci prints were updated with futuristic-style metal discs, jewels and sequins.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
