By Haleema SS
For Donatella Versace’s first combined women’s and men’s show, she did exceptionally well. The feminine and masculine expressions of sexuality blended like butter. Pairings was a running theme as from the very start of the show, two blondes were in loosely the same version of the black suit. Hers was a mini-dress with a cut-out décolleté which echoed his top.
Furthermore, LED screens were the backdrop of the runway. The screens which switched from patterns, a digital projection of Donatella Versace herself and even funhouse mirrors which provided a distorted view of oneself highlighting the fluidity of our faces and bodies. It is no doubt that Versace were implying the connection between the mind and body. However, even though the clothes were gender conformist, Versace was indicating the mind isn’t as Donatella stated to Vogue of her collection: “It’s about a strong point of view, which isn’t female or male”.
An array of black, structural looks was how the show began. Then followed burgundy and dogtooth patterns. Along came pops of striped colours and then soon came the neon prints. So did the mixing of zebra prints with dogtooth and even floral patterns which did not clash rather complimented one another. Monochrome paisley outfits and bright fuchsia began to rule the runaway. And to conclude the ninety-one outfits collection, along came tiger print, lime-green and metallic silver hues.
Glitz was also one of the main objectives of the show as sequins, diamonds and a variety of fabrications such as quilt, denim, knitwear and leather were present.
A collection comprised of ninety-one looks can be a lot to process especially if its Versace which is a brand known for mixing mediums and creating avant-garde designs. However, what kept evoking my attention was my admiration of Donatella’s classic body-conscious tailoring. The attention to the silhouettes’ structure was certainly of importance as Donatella told Vogue “Big shoulders and small waists” and “Strong and linear”. The dresses which all narrowed and broadened (in a flattering manner) were a delight to observe.
Ultimately, as the show was devoted to the fight against hate crimes, Donatella used her platform to remind us “We all have a voice and we must use it”. And what does every powerfully vocal person need? A diverse wardrobe (to fight any battle in style), courtesy of Versace.
My favourite outfits:
Style Species 