Dolce & Gabanna sent 73 ready-to-wear looks down the runway this season, sweeping up the ‘regal’ influence that is a popular theme currently on the catwalks, and incorporating a new level of elegance that simply took the Milan audiences breath away.
For this collection, the designers were said to draw inspiration direct from Domenico Dolces (one half of the designs duo) native Sicily heritage – in particular, it’s baroque religious traditions.
This could be seen most evidently in the heavy black capes and velvet dresses that were thick with their visual links to monarchy and contrastingly (in colour but still highly religious) were the white lace frocks, which brought to mind communion dresses.
Religion, may not be everyone’s first choice of inspiration when it comes to dressing, due to it’s perceived dowdiness, it’s overly covering and formal layering.
But do take a few tips from Dolce and Gabanna who seem to of refined the 19th Century silhouette and defined this season’s inspiration; ornate, imperious, and altogether over-the-top!
Layers of tulle, ruffles, and lavish beading are probably going to be the most easiest of looks to incorporate into your wardrobe – try mimicking the clever use of silk ruffles, which in this RTW collection, transformed a short jumper into an undergarment that would have been seen on a queen or noble-woman!
Dolce and Gabanna were quick to present slightly off-beat designs in sophisticated and surprising ways! Something to keep in mind when adopting this rich, sumptuous, romantic and ornate trend!
Another modern option in terms of taking the fullness of D&G’s collection into your own hands is via your jewellery.
Earrings with huge jewels that echo extravagant chandeliers are an easy way to transition any outfit into the era of overwhelming jewels and accessories.
From your head, right down to your toes, there are details that will induce the feeling of the monarchical looks D&G captured. For example, copy the lace pop socks which boasted ribbons at the back, worn with pointy booties that curled up at the toe – a delightful accompany to a little lace dress or even summer shorts and corseted singlet.
Or for a subtler play on monarchy, religion and the lavishness of the 19th Century, consider a corset top, bralets, and bloomers embroidered in metallic gold thread.
The gold will ensure a royal look, while the mentioned separates can be matched with everything from black, tapered evening pants, to jeans for a more casual look, to a simple silk blouse.
Attainable 19th century abundance is as easy as wearing a pair of lace socks or a velvet blazer with over-sized, gold earrings – A trend absolutely worth trying!
