Dark Glamour in Milan

Milan brought out the darker, more sophisticated side of femininity. In this city of such history, it is only appropriate that designers embraced their regal heritage and presented us with dramatic yet provocative accessories collections.
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Milan brought out the darker, more sophisticated side of femininity. In this city of such history, it is only appropriate that designers embraced their regal heritage and presented us with dramatic yet provocative accessories collections. Heavy embroidery, jacquards, leathers, velvets, trims of fur and skins, military details, predominantly in black and gold hues set the mood for a tough refined lady to emerge (perhaps Rooney Mara did have some influence after all!). In highlight of my favorites...

Gucci set off the season of dark glamour, adding a military twist to its seductive DNA . Tall lace-up leather boots tucked into jodphur-style pants looked fresh, as did sheer stockings peeking out of deep-slit long velvet skirts. Large jacquard hobos, distressed leather satchels and round, clear glasses polished the looks. As always the Gucci girl exhibited confidence.

The Prada show was progressive in terms of accessories, as if Mrs. Prada wanted to build up to an extraordinary finale. As the show commenced, the shoes and bags were merely practical complements to the geometric print flair pant and tunic ensembles that captured the show: Heavy leather platform criss-cross Mary Janes and structured doctors bags. Nothing too new from the house where creativity buttons are usually pushed to the max (have you bought any of the heels on wheels yet?) But as each girl walked the runway, each shoe and handbag took a life of its own. Print fabrics, textured florals, embroidered jewels all got added to the mix and the result was the usual over-the-top brilliance that makes us think "really?" but some how always makes it's way into our closet.

At Bottega simplicity is the usual norm; but it was executed in such a refined, sophisticated manner, that it truly blew my mind away. Elegance: beautifully crafted flat riding boots, soft long leather gloves, pearl earrings and the occasional croc bag. Oh how I wish I could be that girl.

At Dolce, we saw baroque romanticism at its best. Digging into their true Italian roots, designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana found inspiration in the traditional church embroideries. From gorgeous gold embellished velvet boots and Mary Janes worn with matching embroidered sheer hose socks, to tapestry bags and ornamented jewelry, there was no doubt that the operative word in this collection was "rich."

All in all to take from Milan: Black and gold are the colors of the moment, add a flat leather riding boot to your wardrobe, velvet accessories are a must, and definitely invest in an embellished piece. For a quick update, try a pair of sheer hose!

Ciao, see you in Paris.

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