Everything You Need To Know From Milan Fashion Week AW15

Interest in Milan, from a man’s perspective at least, has waned of late; particularly with the advent of London Collections: Men and trade shows such as Pitti Uomo and Jacket Required. Still an original city of style though, the event houses some of the most respected names around and on the evidence, isn’t ready to step aside just yet.

In contrast to the likes of LC:M and even Paris, Milan has a tendency to adopt a more conservative feel, something that emerged ever so slightly over the course of the AW showcase. Here are the main trends and takeaways from this season’s event.

SUITING IS STILL KING

If there is anything the Italians know inside out, it’s tailoring. They appear to have a handle on it, a grasp reciprocated only on the street of Savile Row. So it’s of no surprise that the countries premier fashion event is not in short supply of sharp suiting. The traditional powerhouses of Brioni, Dolce & Gabbana and Canali all produced exemplary takes on tailoring that could step right into your wardrobe immediately.

OVERCOATS IN ABUNDANCE

The imposing overcoat has staged a comeback; if there’s one outerwear option we’re all sporting it’s this outfit-encompassing cover-up and Milan’s ensured it’s lifespan’s extended for a few more years at least. Calvin Klein, Versace and Jil Sander all sent superlative statement topcoats down the runway to reinvigorate this winter trend.

SHADES OF GREY

Monotone’s a burgeoning menswear move and Milan took it to a place that all gents can get on board with, greyscale. Grey on grey was a huge trend across the Italian showcase and it’s one well worth embracing. We especially enjoyed the offering at Boglioli, Calvin Klein and Corneliani.

STATEMENT SCARFING

Etro, Fendi and Salvatore Ferragamo all turned your winter afterthought into the most eye-catching piece in your outfit. Scaled up in size and in eye-catching prints and colours, this new breed of neckwear is going to give you something else to think about when tackling the winter bite.

THE GENDER ISSUE

The main talking point of Milan Fashion Week was the blurring of gender roles and codes, namely at Gucci. There was an unusually distinct bohemian feel at the house that is normally so closely connected to jet-set machismo style; the collection was conspicuously feminine with silk cuffs and collars heavily involved.

Prada joined the gender agenda by having an equal split of men and women, all styled in a mirrored-uniformed approach akin to authoritarian office attire. Armani completed this trend with clean, simple androgynous looks on both the male and female models as opposed to the close to cross-dressing on show at Gucci.

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