Fashion
Milan Fashion Week: Fendi’s 1920s homage and Max Mara’s earthy elegance
2024-09-19
Unveiling the Sartorial Splendor of Milan Fashion Week
Milan Fashion Week, the epicenter of Italian fashion, is currently underway, captivating the world with its dazzling displays of luxury and craftsmanship. As the industry's heavyweights, such as Prada and Gucci, vie for attention, smaller labels specializing in exquisite leather goods are also showcasing their artistry, solidifying Italy's position as a fashion powerhouse. This article delves into the highlights from the first three days of this prestigious event, offering a glimpse into the sartorial brilliance that has become synonymous with the city.Elevating the Essence of Italian Fashion
Fendi's Tribute to the Fendi Sisters
Since joining Fendi as the women's creative director in 2020, British designer Kim Jones has consistently paid homage to the influential women in the Fendi family. This season, he looked back to the brand's rich history, drawing inspiration from the five sisters who built Fendi into the quintessential Roman luxury brand.The Fendi spring/summer 2025 show opened with a touching piano melody interspersed with recordings of one of the sisters, Anna, and her daughter Silvia, reminiscing about the early days of the brand and the meaning of fashion. Referencing the year Fendi was founded, 1925, Jones channeled the essence of the 1920s, with art deco influences, flapper-inspired dresses, and nods to literary icons like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Virginia Woolf.The collection featured intricately embellished sheer flapper dresses, luxurious separates in crocodile leather, silk nightgowns, and fur coats that exuded a sense of effortless elegance. Accessorized with an abundance of bags and standout Red Wing boots, the outfits showcased Fendi's unparalleled craftsmanship and savoir-faire.Embracing the Ethereal and the Edgy
The Fendi show presented a captivating juxtaposition of the ethereal and the edgy, with the delicate, sheer flapper dresses contrasted by the rugged Red Wing boots. This blend of softness and strength reflected the brand's commitment to honoring its heritage while pushing the boundaries of contemporary fashion.The muted color palette, ranging from soft neutrals to rich jewel tones, added to the overall sense of serenity and sophistication, a departure from the bold, vibrant hues often associated with Jones' previous work. This subtle approach allowed the intricate details and luxurious materials to take center stage, showcasing Fendi's mastery of craftsmanship.Celebrating the Fendi Legacy
By weaving the stories and voices of the Fendi sisters into the show, Jones paid a heartfelt tribute to the women who built the brand's legacy. The inclusion of these personal elements added a layer of authenticity and emotional resonance to the collection, inviting the audience to connect with the brand's rich history and the enduring spirit of Italian fashion.The Fendi spring/summer 2025 collection stood as a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to excellence, seamlessly blending its iconic heritage with a modern, forward-thinking approach. As the industry's eyes turn to Milan, Fendi's showcase has undoubtedly left a lasting impression, solidifying its position as a true leader in the world of luxury fashion.