Milan Fashion Week: Day 3 Highlights

Versace
Yes, this was Donatella at her finest. From the first looks worn by supermodel Raquel Zimmermann to the last, closed by Russian model Natasha Poly, this was a show which was classic Versace in every possible way. All short, mini dresses, hot mini skirts and plenty of leopard print. I loved everything about this show, which featured some of my favourite models such as Anna Ewers, Gigi Hadid, Joan Smalls and Hanne Gaby Odiele. From the military inspired khaki looks at the beginning of the show to the swirly, 80's style dresses at the end.

I loved the big belts which cinched in already tiny waists and the strappy sandals, which some models wore with socks, and came creepy up past the ankle in neon yellow, orange and green as well as the bomber jackets in shiny metallic. It was so glossy, even though some may have the cheek to call it tacky. The mini dresses at the end of the show were extremely short and were covered in over-sized, green and yellow leopard and peacock prints. There was just a lot of leg on show, but then what's Versace without a bit of sexy sass? It was one of the best Versace collections I have seen for a while, with plenty of attitude and sexy, structured pieces. A clear highlight from Milan Fashion Week from an absolutely legendary designer: the incredible Donatella Versace.

Emporio Armani
Soft summer sunsets and dusky walks along a deserted beach sprang to mind while watching the Emporio Armani spring/summer 2016 show. All the beautiful colours (mainly pink) romantically merged in together while the sweeping shapes and elegant lines were classic Armani tailoring. It was slouchy, but never loosing the quintessential style the Milanese are known for, with simple t-shirts paired with smart blazers and organza skirts came layered bold necklaces. It was sublime and seamlessly constructed, with stripes again playing a part in the collection. At least we know that stripes will be a thing for next season now. A wonderful show for a man celebrating 40 years in the business.

Etro
I absolutely love this brand, in what seems to be a love affair which grows stronger and stronger each season. Today, Etro was romantic, soft and a little boho in what was a collection which consisted of only the most beautiful, delicate and pretty pieces. I loved the long, flowing floral maxi dresses with 70's gypsy style detailing as well as the lovely colour scheme of purple, burgundy, blue and beige. These shades were muted and elegant; I can imagine the perfect Etro customer wearing such pieces while holidaying in the French Riviera, lounging on their yacht anchored out at sea. Definitely one of my favourite shows, just because if I was rich enough I would snap everything up straight away!

  
Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini 
Reminiscent of the peasant girl beauty of Alberta Ferreti and Valentino, this show by Lorenzo Serafini was lovely and pretty. The clothes which consisted of silk white shirts, sheer layers of black lace gowns, ruffled gowns which bared the legs, white shorts and plenty of blue paired with less bold colours. I loved the dungarees and the white midi dresses which came in small, intricate patterns and cinched in waists. And with supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio closing the show wearing a black, strapped silk dress and a pair of black patent boots, this collection was a huge success.

  
Blumarine
I always feel that Blumarine and their sister label, Bluegirl tend to go quite unnoticed on the international fashion scene, even though they are a respected brand which have been going for quite a while. I enjoyed their show today, which was soft in the use of pastel colours but also harsh in their dramatic black capes, sheer dresses and coats. I loved the floral embellishment on dresses as well as the prints on skirts and tops, which featured soft stripes and graphic roses in an array of bright colours. The transparent chiffon skirts which were covered in clever embroidery were so pretty as were the minimally constructed jackets with two large pockets on the front. A lovely show.

  
Sportmax
Punchy, bold, bright, on point... I could go on forever with complimentary words, but this collection from Sportmax was so sleek and sharp that it was quite impossible to ignore. Black and white were paired with bold blues, yellows and oranges, with soft patent leather playing a big part on coats, shirts and skirts.  It was graphic in that not a spot was out of place and everything was cut to such a precise angle that it did make quite a statement, reminding me a little of the sharpness of Fendi. I loved the sleekness of the show, it was rich and luxurious and reminded me a little bit of a paint palette in how organised and neat the colours and over-sized shapes were. The only thing I wasn't too keen on was the shoes which were so clunky and big that they didn't go with the whole look of the clothes. But nevertheless, I actually preferred this show to MaxMara yesterday - but don't tell anyone!