Milan Fashion Week Spring 2011 Had a Luxurious Start

I always look forward to Milan Fashion Week because I am a fan of fine Italian artistry in both design and textiles. Knock-on-wood, Italian designers both prominent and start-ups have yet to disappoint me in this area. However, making clothing that is wearable and in time with the season being presented, is where things sometimes fall apart. So far, Milan Fashion Week had a luxurious start Wednesday, September 22, 2010 with knockout collections from Alberta Ferretti and Gucci.

Sheer Spring Luxury from Alberta Ferretti

Alberta Ferretti brought luxury to spring with the use of sheer, silk prints and solids. Ultra feminine dresses in muted pastels and metallic shades glided down the runway. Many are used to luxury being shiny gilded hues, rich brocades and fine leather, but the understated luxury of silk chiffon has just as much impact. Overall, the feel of this collection made me think of a mid-spring morning at dawn in a garden watching the mist settle. This romantic imagery befits the romantic luxury of Alberta Ferretti's collection.

Gucci Taps into the Luxury of the 1970s

First, let me start by giving Frida Giannini kudos for using jewel tones in combinations that make them suitable for warmer weather. The way Frida daringly grouped orange, purple, green and gold work together for hot summer nights. Giannini also made use of snakeskin, other fine leathers and Berber accents to up the glam factor of the collection. This 70's inspired collection is for the true Glamazon, the woman who wants to be seen, at the right places and with the right people. I think there will be a lot of Gucci Envy this coming spring!

The Ferretti and Gucci collections brought luxury and glamour back for spring 2011. However, some luxury pieces were also present from No.21 - the new label from Alessandro Dell'Acqua - and the rocking artsy pieces from Francesco Scognamiglio. Will the remainder of Milan Fashion Week Ready-to-Wear Spring 2011 be as luxurious? I sure hope so!