MILAN FASHION WEEK: Gucci, Ferretti, Armani Kick Off

New York Fashion Week delivered a host of promising up-and-coming designers, and London Fashion Week saw the veterans spruce up the runways with colors and festivity, but now that both events are over, it's time to class up the act with the ever-luxurious Milan Fashion Week, which debuted yesterday to the likes of — in pure Italian grandiose fashion — Gucci, MaxMara, Alberta Ferretti and Emporio Armani. The verdict?

Gucci stuck to basics with loose-fitted satin ensembles including long gowns and wide pants, and the occasional ruffle and puffed sleeve to add dimension and layering to the voluminous pieces. But the highlight was indubitably the color. Monotone outfits were dipped head-to-toe in bold hues like cyan, cobalt, ochre or magenta, for a gallant, striking effect. Alberta Ferretti's aquatic line was reminiscent of Monique Lhuillier's sea-themed SS13 collection, which showed during New York Fashion Week — signaling a staying trend to keep in mind for next season. Embellishing sheer, embroidered fabrics with metallic finishes and jewel details, Ferretti's flowing garments echoed the underwater look and feel with grace and freshness. Emporio Armani piled on the asymmetrical layers in neutral tones like beige and caramel, contrasting elegantly with peeking blanched slips and the occasional sequin or button detail. Meanwhile, MaxMara experimented with combined prints, pairing exotic cheetah with florals or plaid, in an earthy safari-themed palette topped off by turbans.

Others worth mentioning include Francesco Scognamiglio's sheer, lingerie-inspired collection; Ermanno Scervino's sunkissed minis and Latin curves; and Blugirl's modern take on the romantic hippie look. As if to cement Milan's reputation as fashion mecca, iconic fashionista Kate Moss was spotted toting her Willow bag around the city as she shopped ahead of her Liu Jo promotional duties. The model looked stunning in red lipstick and a simple black cape jacket.

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Interested in menswear as well? See Versace's Spring/Summer 2013 show in Milan for yourself: