Milan understands how to blend innovation and creative expression with wearability.  And nowhere is this more evident than their handling of men’s fur.  Once the domain of only a few designers, with Fendi clearly leading the pack, for the menswear fall 2017 collection fur is everywhere.

From the more established  names including Ferragamo, Prada, Alexander McQueen and Jil Sander to the younger labels of DSquared or  newer entrants including Frankie Morello, Billionaire, Yoshio Kubo or Consistence, designers have firmly established the role of fur and shearling in menswear.  If there is one key trend coming out of the fall 2017 menswear collections in Milan, it is fur!

The ability to apply creativity and fashion-forward thinking to deliver well-crafted clothing with commercial appeal is what sets Milan apart.  Look closely at the layering in collections including Ferragamo and DSquared2 and you will see that underneath the styling these designers presented a wealth of solid wardrobe pieces that can be mixed and matched, dressed up or down to reflect a wide range of  individual style statements.

From the Edwardian inspired elegance of Alexander McQueen to the Himalayan references of Etro, high-concept was on display, effectively executed to create looks that would give any man sartorial confidence.

Finely tailored suits from Armani and Jil Sander offered plenty of options for the polished, sophisticated man-about-town.  Dondup showed a clean, crisp single-breasted option with brightly colored velvet sneakers to give it a youthful twist.  The exposed stitching on a precisely tailored jacket from Consistence showcased the duo’s sartorial skills and reflected a refined elegance.

Texture was a driving force this season, both for the visual richness it brings and for its statement of luxury.  Velvets, corduroy, chunky or ribbed knits and shearlings had the plush touch.  Jacquards and embroideries heightened the elegant appeal.  And when textures were layered  the resulting looks and the wardrobe building possibilities presented were pure fashion magic. The key patterns for the season ran the gamut, from the refined hounds tooth and checks more commonly associated with British design to upper-crust herringbone, plaids that ranged from regal to rugged and even florals.

The hero of the runways was clearly found in outerwear this season.  Designers played with volume, tailoring, textures and details to create statement pieces that defined their collections.  From the innovative top coats at Trussardi to the oversized puffers of and of course the extraordinary shearlings that dominated the runways, men will be fashionably armed to meet whatever the weather may bring.

One of the most interesting shows of the week?  Dolce and Gabbana presented a collection that reflected their trademark drama and glamour with a roster of celebrity offspring as models walking in looks they styled.

And while we applaud creativity and the expression of individual style, there are some looks we just don’t get!

Paris menswear is up next…..

 

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