Milan Men’s Fashion Week Recap
GQ’s Cocktails and Conversations party in Milan this month isn't the only thing that has people talking. Milan Men’s fashion week took place this month, June, 16th - 20th, and debuted the latest and greatest for men’s fashion going into Spring 2024. The week of festivities featured shows from Valentino, Ralph Lauren Purple Label, Prada, and more.
Image: via Prada
Prada’s latest Mens Spring/Summer collection, created by Miuccia Prada and Raf Simmons makes a statement on fluidity through daring silhouettes and uncommon proportions. A common theme throughout the entire show was long tailored sleeves extending past the fingers. Suits with broad shoulders and hemmed wide shorts created the illusion of an hourglass figure as models walked the catwalk. Cargo styles top and fisherman vests were also found throughout the show in many colors, creating a utilitarian type feel to the collection.
The collection also had essences of femininity through flouncy style blouses with western fringe. The overall loose and relaxed fit of the collection created a fluid and free-spirited essence. The all-metal set for the show featuring translucent liquid slime ascending to the floor made an industrial yet fluid setting for the show.
Image: Vogue
Dolce & Gabanna’s show took place at Università Degli Studi di Milano on a classic white catwalk and black set. Designed by Dominico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, the collection features contemporary men’s wear with extends beyond tradition and challenges the basic principles of men's formalwear. The collection is all neutrals: blacks, whites, creams, and different shades of brown. Many designs are solid, with the exception of pinstripes or sheer tops embroidered with monochromatic floral. Kimono-like cross necks with a tie around the waste are seen throughout the show, untraditional in typical Western formal wear. Unique necklines also replace many typical shirt collars such as v-necks and mock necks. Intricate yet monochromatic or contrasting details such as floral embroidery and large flower appliques provide a sense of femininity to the pieces. Unconventional cuts are frequent in the collection. Overslides and long sleeves, sleeveless suits, cinched waists, and fitted oversized pants make for a unique display of menswear styles.
Image: via WWD
Who wouldn't want to go to a fashion show inside of a factory, well Fendi just made it happen. Their SS 24 collection by Creative Director Silvia Venturini had an industrial feel as attendees gathered in the brand’s Florence facility for the fashion show. Venturini played with functionality and craftsmen ship to create a collection reminiscent of its maker. Common colors include Knaki, Brown, and Green. Green, in a variety of shades from sage to mint ties together looks and is featured monochromatically aswell. Functional pieces like overalls with pockets, work belts with tools, and leather work aprons are also displayed in the show. Overall, the collection has an artisan feel. Relaxed fitted shirts are styled with loose ties, many textiles are reminiscent of medical scrubs, and sleeveless styles are common, tying together the craftsman feel.
It looks like Men’s fashion next spring will be focused on experimenting with new silhouettes, embracing feminine elements, and blending sophistication with utilitarianism. What will this mean for mainstream fashion come 2024?
