When it comes to highlights from Milan Fashion Week, we’ve been spoiled for choice. Dramatic runway shows, local and international celebrities, and beautiful clothes…so much has happened in Italy’s fashion capital.
First came New York, then London Fashion Week…now all eyes are turned towards Milan for the Autumn/Winter Fashion shows. The shows began on 24 February and continue until 3 March. Iconic brands like Prada, Gucci and Versace are taking part and offering plenty to look at.
A ‘black moment’ at Prada
In a surprise move, Prada’s show didn’t have a single evening dress. “This is not a time for decadence,” designer Miuccia Prada told The Guardian, citing a depressed global mood. “We are in a very black moment. This is a very difficult time,” she said backstage on Thursday. Instead, the highlight of Prada’s Milan Fashion Week show were floaty and feminine designs, meant to inspire liberation for the overburdened women who wear them.
Fendi’s 100-year anniversary
An unmissable Milan Fashion Week highlight was undoubtedly the centenary celebrations at Fendi on Wednesday. Silvia Venturini Fendi, the founders’ granddaughter, is one of the artistic directors and presided over the show. Her daughter did the jewellery and her seven-year-old grandchildren featured on the runway.
Fendi’s most famous design is the baguette bag which was namechecked in Sex and the City.In honour of this iconic accessory, actress Sarah Jessica Parker was a guest of honour, wearing a baguette bag.
Diesel, best known for its denim offerings, blew show attendees away with its larger-than-life set. 7 000 graffiti artists from around the world (including South African Farai Engelbrecht) sprayed about 3km of white cloth which was draped around the venue. South African amapiano star Daliwonga is the brand’s global ambassador and took a seat in the front row.
Milan Fashion Week highlights: celebrity sightings
The celebrities lining the catwalk are as much a Milan Fashion Week highlight as the clothes. During the week, scores of actors and musicians attended the fashion shows. Jessica Chastain, Yara Shahidi and Dev Patel lead the crowd at Gucci. Also spotted was Ashley Park, who stars as Mindy in Emily in Paris. She dazzled in a sparkly black dress for the Fendi show.
Amongst the celebrities at the Prada show was Simone Ashley, best known for her role as Kate in Bridgerton. As ever, Vogueeditor Anna Wintour made several eye-catching appearances in her trademark black sunglasses.
What’s your favourite Milan Fashion Week highlight?
Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
