The contrast between everyday office life and the change of scenery that nature offers is the leitmotif of the new men’s collection presented on Sunday in Milan by the emblematic stylist Miuccia Prada.
The highlight of the third day of Milan Men’s Fashion Week, where minimalist elegance was embellished with a pop of color, took place at the Prada Foundation on a glass floor that featured an autumnal landscape dotted with yellow leaves as guests sat in office chairs.
Drab gray, camel-colored and black business suits are spiced up with little sparks of imagination, such as beanies in purple, bright red and apple green or eye-catching sandals. Slim, single-colored ties are also making a comeback at Prada.
The theme of “renewal and change, like nature (and) natural rhythms” inspired the fall-winter 2023/24 collection, said Raf Simons, Prada’s creative co-director. “The office and nature, indoors and outdoors, the instinctive change of people moving from one sphere to another” are reflected in the clothing.
The Prada man’s physique is slim and sophisticated, the tight shirts are tucked into the pants, the whole look is accentuated by bold, wide belts.
The collection focuses on traditional chic, with broad-shouldered jackets in tweed or leather, turtlenecks and soft cardigans. Matching shirts and straight-leg trousers in black, gray and pale pink lie beneath puffy bomber jackets and winter parkas. There are also loose double-breasted gold coats.
Armani’s Lighthouse
On Saturday it was the turn of Giorgio Armani, presenting his Emporio line, where adventure and daring are the main themes of a ready-to-wear collection aimed at a young, trendy clientele.
The fashion enthusiasts immersed themselves in the world of sailors as the models drove up in the glow of a lighthouse and accompanied by the sound of the waves.
“I have never hidden my love for the sea, the symbol of freedom and adventure,” said Giorgio Armani. “This year I thought about crossing the Atlantic and the boats that crossed it.”
It is a collection of soft and flowing materials with wide trousers, long leather coats and jackets with broad shoulders, but also sailor hats, overalls and oversized rubber shirts.
A similar nautical theme was present in women’s fashion, with long embroidered coats over matching mini-shorts and tops, complemented by a pair of boots.(AFP)