INITIALLY, everything seemed as normal at Dolce and Gabbana’s AW18 show, the extravagant runway decorated to a decadent standard, with a touch of Italian artistry, is something we have come to expect from the design duo but we were caught of guard with what followed. Instead of models, the first things to take to the runway were a parade of drones carrying their new range of bag.
After the initial excitement of the high-tech opening, we feared the collection may not match up, but how we were wrong. From the off, themes of devotion and love came in plenty, as hearts and printed cherubs adorned multiple garments, along with slogan prints and an abundance of roses. But what do designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana love so much? The fashion industry, and what better way to show their love and devotion than through a 110-piece collection.
Black dominates the collection, accompanied by a rainbow of colours. Predominant accents of red and pink are notable due to their connotations with love. Undertones of classical Italian fashion are common in Dolce and Gabbana past collection’s, with obvious reference to Italy’s strong Catholicism, and this collection is no different. Elegant silhouettes and dress cuts play up to the chic aesthetic that Italian fashion is known for, adorned with gold crosses and accessorised with biblical crowns.
Sportswear references come in the form of elastic waistbands and sweatshirts, kept in cohesion through use of luxurious materials and print relating to the theme. The collection finalised with a bejewelled lace look, leaving us dreaming of the Sicilian countryside and devoted to the designers.
by Todd Burns