DIVINE ROMANCE
Milan: Dolce & Gabbana took florid classicism to the limit this season, creating a boldly luxurious collection that reminded fashion fans what “made in Italy” really means. A torrent of lace and ceaseless gold embroidery defined the rich nature of Fall, with meticulously detailed sheer dresses layered beneath curling Persian lamb capes, frothy tiered blouses tucked into bubble skirts, and inky velvet sheaths trimmed with girly eyelet. But this parade of typical Dolce & Gabbana texture was just the beginning of the homage to traditional Italian techniques and the designers fully committed to the romance of the Renaissance with sweeping fresco florals complete with plump cherubs. Accessories furthered the heavenly theme, crowning most of the models with jeweled headbands positioned like halos, while sheer socks, net gloves and lace veils were a cheeky nod to devout modesty. Although the label’s signature hotpants and peek-a-boo lingerie would preclude a visit to the Vatican, F/W 12 served as a spirited tribute to Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana’s mother country.—Nina Stotler
Silhouette: Boxy / Slim / A-line / Hourglass / Fitted
Color: Black / Gold / White / Silver / Poppy
Key Items: Boxy jackets / Capelets / Hotpants / Velvet sheath dresses / Sheer dresses / Corsets / Long capes / Lace tops / Embroidered brocade coats / Tiered tulle dresses / Pencil skirts / Ruffled blouses / Bubble skirts / Hourglass lace dresses / Lace skirt suits / Swing coats
Materials: Lace / Wool / Silk / Velvet / Eyelet / Chiffon / Brocade / Persian lamb / Fur / Tulle / Cashmere / Tapestry
Print + Pattern: Logo graphics / Leopard prints / Florals / Renaissance prints
Details + Trim: Crystal embellishment / Eyelet trim / Gold embroidery / Pleating / Ruffled collars / Ruffled cuffs / Bows / Floral appliqué / Contrast trim / Peaked shoulders
Accessories + Footwear: Embellished socks / Net gloves / Crystal drop earrings / Jeweled headbands / Frame bags / Jeweled sandals / Hard clutches / Lace knee-highs / Fur bags / Pouch necklaces / Platform sandals / Printed photo clutches / Chandelier earrings / Jeweled corset belts / Oversized jeweled necklaces / Knee-high suede boots / Chain strap evening bags / Embellished sunglasses
