Milan Fashion Show 2011 F/W- Textile

           In Milan, the palette for Fall 2011 was dark.  Browns served as the foundation color along with black.   They were fused with gunmetal and deeply shaded blues and reds.  Slightly brighter colors such as rusts, mustards, oranges, plums, and mossy greens provided balance and interest.   Silhouettes referenced the 70’s and 80’s, and every other decade back to the age of cave-dwellers, similar to New York and Paris shows.  Seemingly without end, fashion now is a constant toying with the past, present, and future.  Also the influence of tuxedos continued to be important.  Luxurious furs and leathers were not used sparingly.  As is often the case with Fall fashions, there were rich embellishments including intricate lace, gold lamé, beads, sequins, and embroidery.  Prints and patterns were both striking and subdued.   The only element that seemed to be consistent, even within collections, was the complex combinations of fabrics, textures, and lines and the equally complex layering of prints, patterns, and embellishments.   Collections were finished with large statement earrings and semi-precious stone jewelry.  Layering complicated elements at its best is dynamic and sophisticated; at its worst it is dizzying and overwhelming.