Molten metallics, gauche jewel colours and vertiginous heels are all dominant trends this season, with a healthy dose of tribal prints and statement gold jewellery - just like last season’s flirtation with animal prints – be it full on leopard print cocktail dresses, or demure cashmere cardigans. Then, going back to spring/summer 2008, brightly coloured, elaborately patterned fabrics were stretched into conceptual shapes – be it billowing smocks or body-con second skins – yet another continuation of this decadent, opulent fashion. And there is one designer who has made this over the top, more-is-more aesthetic a must-do trend.
While fashion churns out zeitgeist after ephemera each season, this designer has endured for 30 years, coming back each season with a signature style of outlandish, playful and sexy fashion – not to mention dressing some of the most beautiful and photographed women in the world (Beyonce, Madonna, Charlize Theron, Victoria Beckham and Sharon Stone). It is of course, Roberto Cavalli.
Capturing the flamboyance, passion and style of his native Italy, Roberto Cavalli has rightfully earned his tenure in the ‘fashion hall of fame’ - his signature designs, love of prints and rich fabrics and high-maintenance, figure-skimming cuts have maintained his position at the cutting-edge of high end fashion since his career began.
And, even in times of economic hardship he is influencing the wardrobes of millions – with the high street churning out imitations of his pieces and referencing his uber-luxe look each season. In a bid not to alienate his fan base, back in 2007 Roberto Cavalli produced a diffusion range with H&M to a rapturous reception from critics – giving us all a chance to share in the Cavalli excitement. With zebra print maxi-dresses, daring gold accessories and flapper-worthy sequins, Cavalli both captured and created fashion’s mood at the time, a testimony to his skill and creativity.
While the newspapers and commentators are full of gloom – predicting the end of anything fun or frivolous in exchange for reserved recession-proof dour, the Cavalli brand still endures, with this week’s announcement that Just Cavalli – a branch of his empire – will continue to produce it’s range of womenswear, menswear and accessories for a further five years.
It seems that, yet again, the future belongs with Cavalli.
AAGillsLoveChild
11 months ago
I’m addicted to this Insider’s column and this smacks of their patter… Insider, you shall be known to me! I’m not exactly a fashionista (o) but I like your tone. You’re funny, biting and provocative without overstepping the mark. You belong in higher echelons than fashion journalism, that much is certain - I can’t see you stooping to being the next Liz Jones (just noted that her wikipedia page has her birth listed as ‘1958 or before’, ha!)… It’s an important skill for any columnist to know their audience, and you clearly deserve a larger one.
Ciao
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