Menswear looks do not have to be over the top in oder to stand out. Sometimes it is better to mix and match pieces to get the effect. At times an entire expressive look can be a style train wreck. Too much is happening in all directions. With mens fashion a way of standing out is just use one piece. I liked the Marni collection because there were parts of the collection that could stand stand alone. The brands jacket or suit with the classic wardrobe piece such as a white shirt is enough. A person does not have to over do it to be seen.
The Black and Paper Go See at the Marni Atelier in Milan during Milan Fashion Week
I met the team from Antonelli Firenze in Milan at Fashion Week. I was not familiar with the highend brand. As a womenswear brand, their niche is luxury looks. The designs are on the classic side, not what a person would call “daring” or on the edgy. The pieces are for long term style. If a shopper buys a coat from the label, you can bet it will be worn for years. The quality of the material and craftsmanship are top.
I liked the patterned outerwear. A statement coat should be in everyones closet. The one problem could be if it goes out of style. I do not see that being a problem with Antonelli, consider this an investment piece. The design is grounded and the material is rich, always fashionable.
Milan Fashion Week coverage from the Cividini Fashion Show, I was not familiar with this brand, attending the fashion show I had no expectations. It is always nice to have a plesant surprise in the frantic schedule. Designers Miriam and Piero established their namesake brand on wearable looks for professional women and men, practical but not shy. As always with many Italian designers, the fabrics were front and center, soft, flowing. The Spring 2019 collection had long hemlines, dots, stripes, belted looks,and a few prints were on the runway. Not to worry, modesty was not the central theme, the word “confidence” is more appropriate.
This year the Bling brand decided not to showcases in Milan but in Paris for Fashion Week. A bit of a surprise! A change of location but the same looks applied. Creative Director Michele is not about the understated. Get Noticed! Flaunt it if you got it! Who cares about restraint. Instagram is about a fantasy life and Gucci is the stylist, sparkling accents, dazzling embroidery with Jewels fit for a Sun King.
GUCCI FAB
Paris based photographer and Black and Paper creative contributor Brice Hardelin attended a private tour of the Spring 2019 collection at the atelier in Paris.
Has Gucci gone too far? A recent the New York Times article asked the question, “Is Gucci stylish or tacky?” The answer could go in both ways according the perspective. Gucci embraced the modern. In many ways the looks reflect the “Selfie Times”. See me! This is what I got! Instagram posting moment! Because life is not about being subtle. Because these designs are made with social media in mind, it is all about the post. During Fashion Week Milan in February I got an up close and personal go see of the entire collection at the Gucci Campus in Milan. Creative Director Alessandro Michele has taken the brand into new areas unashamed personal expression. For those who like the subdued, buy a British Heritage Brand.
Cap
This Fall Collection mixed with pop references and styles. There is no one silhouette. It is about being photographed in the here and now, no matter what is worn. The aesthetic is classic meets frivolity, everyday items charged with bling. The pieces can be mixed and match with streetwear for a standout effect, casual jeans with a baseball cap emblazoned with a “G” on top. For bag fanatics in all of us with the urge to show off, the exotic skins and shapes with shining details are there. You cannot help but get noticed with this accessory hanging on your arm. The details are many, such as embroidery, logos, and prints.
What I liked the most was the overcoat with a twist of three visual styles. One half was traditional gentlemen’s gray while the other mixed tartan with an animation print on the bottom. The gender look is menswear but in reality it could be effortlessly worn by anyone. Honestly, I would not wear an entire Gucci look. It would overwhelm me. One piece would be enough for an entrance.
Munich Press Days was more about luxury and international brands. Given the cities proximity to Paris and Milan, many labels present their collections and pieces to the international press and media based in Germany.
Hats are debonair for men, the ultimate charm or dramatic accessory for women. Borsalino has been making hats since 1857. The brand’s most famous is the one worn by Humphrey Bogart in the final scene of the film classic “Casablanca”.
Black and Paper viewed the latest collection of head pieces in Milan during Fashion Week in Feburary 2018.
