Milan, the fashion capital of Italy, kicked off the runway season with a bang. Despite the muggy weather and frequent showers, fashion enthusiasts flocked to the city to witness the unique styles showcased by southern gentlemen Alessandro Dell’Acqua and Fausto Puglisi.
No. 21 and Roberto Cavalli took a refreshing approach by bringing a sense of liberation and sexual freedom to their runway shows. While New York designers focused on dressing successful career women and London Fashion Week highlighted the growth of designers, Milan aimed for a different angle. No. 21 and Roberto Cavalli embraced the idea of dressing boldly and breaking free from societal norms.
Designer Alessandro Dell’Acqua, with his brand No. 21, paid homage to his hometown Naples through his decadent collection. The garments exuded spirituality, intense passion, and a touch of opulence. Models wearing No. 21 looked as if they had just experienced a passionate encounter or were about to embark on one. The collection featured an array of sequins, sheer cocktails, slip dresses, lingerie-inspired looks, saucy bras, and even cardigans. These pieces were paired with singlets, slim knits, and micro short cotton dresses. Some looks even showcased semi-sheer cocktails that revealed the wearer’s undergarments. In a cultural climate marked by prevalent sexual abuse claims, No. 21’s celebration of women’s independence was a breath of fresh air, allowing women to flaunt their beauty and sexuality confidently.
Under the design direction of Fausto Puglisi, Roberto Cavalli brought back their electrifying prints with a tropical haute-hippie collection. The runway was adorned with giant balls of tropical fauna, creating a paradise-like atmosphere. The collection featured explosive pink fauna print dresses, chiffon caftans, enveloping kimonos, and even denim jeans. Fausto Puglisi described his collection as a celebration of freedom, color, and the art of playing with one’s wardrobe. The lineup also included an all-black section, although not every look was successful. The standout piece of the collection was a see-through lace body-hugging column worn by Italian supermodel Vittoria Ceretti, showcasing the beauty of the female form in a sensational manner.
Both No. 21 and Roberto Cavalli’s collections celebrated the body and sexuality, offering a stark contrast to the current Anglo-Saxon culture and media. In a society where women are often judged for their choices, these designers embraced the right of women to express themselves and feel happy without seeking validation from others. Their collections brought joy and liberation to the runway, setting the stage for an exciting season in Milan.
To learn more about Milan Fashion Week and the designers mentioned in this article, you can visit the following links:
1. Vogue – Milan Fashion Week
2. Vogue – Roberto Cavalli Spring 2022 Ready-to-Wear Collection
