Viva Italia

As the third destination in the international four-city Fashion Week schedule, Milan could arguably be the best. Not that I don't love New York, London and Paris for all their charms and champions. But Milan, for the true fashion follower, is always where it's at.

When I lived in London going to the shows was the highlight of the season. We'd dress up in smart jackets, large handbags, jeans and boots and wander over to Chelsea, where droves of revelers waited in anticipation. I remember my favorite show was Gharani Strok. The colors and patterns were blinding in vivid shades of yellow and this fall's palette of muted grays and blacks is just as alluring.

As the shows commenced so did we. Writing about every detail, from a sleeve or pleat, to a zipper or seam. It was great fun and quite exciting. Which is what lead me to this post. While the Italian catwalks usher in the newest collections, some of the most influential trends are being unveiled. There are themes of purple, monochromatic, fur, volume (again?), and slim, pencil silhouettes. So far fall is looking like a throwback to a time worth celebrating.

So who's making waves?

Well, Marni for one. I've mentioned them before and I'll mention them again. Marni is one of my all-time favorite labels because they continually deliver. Consuelo Castiglioni's lead the pack with PVC and shots of color and pattern. Simple, classic Marni looks took shape when layered on top of textured leggings and paired with vests and large webbed belts. The look is fresh, wearable and a bit daring. Exactly what we need come fall when floral is all but a distant memory.

Gucci. I always take note of Gucci because we use them in so many of our photo shoots. Lately there's been this glam rock vibe which I'm quite happy to see go. I missed the femininity, so when I read that Frida Giannini was taking the label back to its vintage-inspired roots I was more than pleased. Giannini embraced high waists and puffed shoulders with splashes of rich cherry red. Decadence still reigned supreme, however, as long fur coats edged out jeweled suits and minis, and a distinct 1930s glamour prevailed. It's a beautiful collection and one I hope to reference often in the coming months.

Alberta Ferretti. A woman's woman, Ferretti has guided us straight into fall with her palette of gray, jade, camel and black. Simple lines made sense along with belted coats, cocktail dresses and the always appealing princess silhouette. The use of trim accentuated her clothing with rich flavors, lending both a unique and re-proportioned feel.

It's also wise to note that fall is still championing the black opaque tight. I'm so happy about this - I love the trend and could not imagine giving it up. I'll wear mine with dove grey heels and a mint green dress, which will be lovely come mid-september when the last bits of warmth are escaping.