Dolce & Gabbana’s Edgy Showcase at Milan Fashion Week
A Unique Runway Experience Amidst City Chaos
Milan’s vibrant atmosphere may be accustomed to the frenzy of Fashion Week, but the recent Dolce & Gabbana show introduced a novel twist. Construction work along the streets necessitated the temporary suspension of tram services, leading designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana to elevate the runway by creating a high stage outside the venue. Following the models’ displays inside, the fashion spectacle spilled onto the streets, accompanied by bass-heavy music reminiscent of downtown club nights.
Thematic Concept: Cool Girl Fashion
This season embraced the “cool girl” aesthetic, highlighting styles that resonated with both designers’ personal connections and contemporary street fashion. The collection featured an eclectic mix of vintage tees, lace camisoles, and relaxed garments like cargo pants and jeans, paired with biker boots. Gabbana remarked, “We completely changed our mood… We took inspiration from Irina Sheikh and Vittoria Ceretti of Mona Tugaard, who dress spontaneously on the streets.”
A Departure from Traditional D&G
Notably, the show marked a significant shift for Dolce & Gabbana, pivoting from their recent signature styles characterized by glamorous black widow dresses and haute couture aesthetics. Gabbana acknowledged this return to roots, stating that many have inquired about the popular D&G line, which emerged over a decade ago. “This is a 2000s mood, but it’s a little higher,” he asserted, indicating a nuanced evolution of their past designs.
Revival of Luxurious Fur and Sparkling Embellishments
Fur made a strong comeback at Milan Fashion Week, as Dolce & Gabbana redefined its application, integrating it into luxe designs with shirring techniques. This revival was evident in various garments, including military-style coats and denim jackets, elevating them to more exuberant fashion statements. The collection also highlighted sparkling elements, with cargo pants and jeans embellished with clusters of crystals, showcasing a creative blend of casual and opulence.
Dynamic Presentation: Day to Night Transformation
The show embodied a duality of day and night aesthetics, reminiscent of a past paparazzi-themed boys’ collection. Initially illuminated by ambient lighting, the atmosphere shifted dramatically as the lights dimmed, allowing models to transition from casual boots to high heels, accentuating short slip dresses that departed from traditional silhouette norms. The music, curated by Maneskin bassist Victoria De Angelis, provided a fitting backdrop for the evening’s energy.
In essence, this iteration of Dolce & Gabbana at Milan Fashion Week successfully captured the spirit of modern street style while reinventing their classic elements. With a mixture of nostalgia and fresh perspective, the designers once again affirmed their influential role in contemporary fashion.
