As Milan Fashion week rolled towards its Tuesday conclusion it was time for the big guns to bring out their visions for next season. Leading the way at the weekend was Blumarine's Anna Molinari, who blended bright hues of bubble gum pink, yellow and pale blue across billowing animal print chiffon evening dresses, jackets and miniscule shorts.
Prints, this time of the polka dot variety, were also much in evidence at the Gucci presentation. Models sashayed down the runway in spotted tops in red and blue, cinched in at the waist with an obi-style belt. Others hung loose above lycra leggings or closely fitting, thigh-length boots with spiked heels.
Meanwhile the fashion house's eveningwear, which was influenced by the Eighties - "a glittering, glamorous time, when going out was a way of life" - focused on crystal-studded mini-dresses and suits.
Miuccia Prada's scarlet-dominated collection of tweed shorts and red-knit sweaters was accessorised with some unusual footwear - high-heeled versions of the rubber waders normally seen on fishermen. Indeed the whole collection was inspired by the great outdoors, and aimed, according to the designer, at strong, feminine women.
After the cancellation of his Just Cavalli show last week, Roberto Cavalli was back in the spotlight to present his main autumn/winter line. Highlights included studded miniskirts, metallic leggings and black body stockings worn under sheer black and midnight blue voile confections.
"It's not a time for romance," the Florentine couturier reflected about the gothic and masculine aesthetic of his latest collection. "You have to be aggressive to win," he continued, adding he had "declared war on the (financial) crisis".
Photo: Getty Images
Photo: Getty Images
Photo: Getty Images
