Show report: Roberto Cavalli A/W’11

One of the most anticipated shows of Milan Fashion Week was Roberto Cavalli at the spectacularly grand Arco della Pace in Piazza Sempione

One of the most anticipated shows of Milan Fashion Week was Roberto Cavalli at the spectacularly grand Arco della Pace in Piazza Sempione. For those unfamiliar with the Milanese map, imagine a catwalk running through Marble Arch and bringing London to a standstill and you’re on the right track.

Always a glamorous event, this year’s front row included Cavalli-favourite Kelly Rowland as well as all the Annas - Wintour, Dello Russo and Piaggi, the Holy Trinity of international fashion. Italian supermodel Mariacarla Boscono opened the show and set the tone for an atmospheric collection of multi-layered looks.

We saw soft, embroidered layers, long, loose dresses in velvet (a key fabric for AW11 championed by Ralph Lauren in his show at New York Fashion Week), fluid, almost transparent shirts and long, georgette scarves. The softness was counterbalanced by laser-cut leather gypsy-esque waistcoats with nipped-in waists, as well as fur gilets worn with long dresses or feather jackets over short dresses.

The various pelts and fabrics created an outdoorsy look that reflected the elements, from ethereal pale greys and blue muslins to autumnal earthy coppers, gold and brown ensembles.

Outfits were finished off with moccasin-style shoes that had been vamped up with a horn-shaped heel.

The result still had sex appeal (Cavalli’s stock in trade) but was more natural than previous collections. Roberto watched the show from the sidelines before walking the full length of the catwalk to take his bow – to rapturous applause.

Roberto Cavalli must-haves for A/W’11: - Layers. The more the merrier - Nature-inspired prints in chiffon or gorgette - Long scarves - A slim-cut waistcoat or feather-fur gilet - Moccasins

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