Milan Fashion Week: Spring Summer 2013

Milan SS13 Coffee

Milan SS13Milan is where the edgy fashion is – where it all about cut and fabric. But there was definitely a less structured, boxier feel to a lot of the collections for SS13. Many of the styles were deconstructed and minimalist and pockets, on everything, was a useful detail. There was also a return to the trend of matching bags to outfits, something that has been frowned upon for a good many seasons.

One of the most wearable collections (and a Belle favourite) was Dolce & Gabbana which seemed to be Rio Carnivale meets the Italian Riviera.

Milan SS13 Dolce & Gabbana

Like New York and London there was a lot of black and white, stripes and a return to separates on the runway. Here is the best of the rest of the trends that we spotted in Milan.

Colour Blocking

Strong colours were seen across the catwalks of Milan whether it was in the bright colourful patterns or colour blocked. Making an impact, especially with matching accessories were Gucci, Versace, Versus, Moschino, Jil Sander and Etro.

 Patterns

Milan SS13 PatternClashing colours, stripes,  prints, graphic designs and far east art were all present on the runways of Milan showing that patterns can be fun, uplifting and ultimately very wearable. The best example came from Versus, Etro, Just Cavalli, Dolce & Gabbana, Moschino and Prada.

Whiff of Coffee

Milan SS13 CoffeeCoffee shades, from pale cafe au lait through to cappuccino and espresso made for a luxe look on catwalk. Bottega Veneta (first and third picture), Max Mara, Salvatore Ferragamo and Emporio Armani all showed how these shades can be dressed up or down but ultimately look sumptuous.

Soft fabrics

Milan SS13 softsFlowing, soft and light fabrics took centre stage in many of the designers collections. Breezing down the runway they added a summery sophistication. Blugirl, Blumarine, Alberta Ferretti, Emilio Pucci and Giorgio Armani all made an impact with their light-weight offerings.

Lace

Milan SS13 LaceWhether it was used as an overlay, an underlay or as an insert, lace made an impact in Milan. From delicate to sexy and with a slight gothic edge it is a welcome return. Taking full advantage of its gauzy and ethereal uses were Dolce & Gabbana, Alberta Ferretti, Roberto Cavalli, Just Cavalli and Versace.

  • Miss B

    Belinda Wanis, aka Miss B, is a Belle About Town who likes to bring a little bit of style into every aspect of her life. An experienced journalist with over 20 years in the industry she turned to the web, creating Belle About Town in early 2010, to fill a gap for tech-savvy stylish women who want the best life has to offer at their fingertips. She loves a decadent cocktail bar, a beautifully cut dress, cultural getaways, quality over quantity and is partial to Asian-fusion food. A globetrotter, who has lived in Australia, the UK and Denmark, she enjoys holidaying in the sun and you can often find her on a beach in Thailand or on shopping breaks in Sydney or New York. But her first love is, of course, London!