From the Quadrilatero d’Oro to Corso Venezia, we may not be wandering the iconic fashion streets this season, but the Milan style remains a sophisticated choice for dressing in autumn and winter, no matter where you are or how you’re adjusting to our post-lockdown lives.
Milanese fashion is famous for its tactile knitwear, leather pieces, chic streetwear, and the timeless little black dress. This year, these essentials have been updated with lace face masks and leftover fabrics from past seasons to reflect our shifting priorities. The usual glitz and glamour are toned down in a world of social distancing and reimagined at-home wardrobes.
Milan’s journey to becoming a fashion capital can be traced back through the distinctive identities and rich traditions of Italy’s regions. Italian fashion originated during the Renaissance, with fashion icons like Catherine de’ Medici playing a pivotal role in introducing corsets and high heels. Initially, Florence led the way as Italy’s fashion hub, but Milan gained prominence in the 1960s and 70s, thanks to designers like Giorgio Armani and Gianni Versace.
Milan Fashion Week started in 1958, marking the city as a rising star in design. As an industrial hub with strong manufacturing connections, Milan embraced the rise of ready-to-wear fashion and Italian-style elegance, becoming a key player in couture. Vogue Italia’s 1960s debut in Milan further cemented its influence. By the century’s end, the city’s fashion scene boasted giants like Moschino, Dolce & Gabbana, and Prada, with Versace leading the Supermodel era, making Milan Fashion Week a standout event.
Looking at autumn and winter 2020/21 trends, the collections in Milan hinted at the themes of a cautious world. Fringes, flounces, earthy tones like terra cotta and toffee, and relaxed, loungy styles mirrored our home-based lifestyle. Maxi-dresses with minimalist designs, puffed sleeves, and voluminous clothing were in style. While boutiques might not showcase party dresses this festive season, sequins are still in demand for those small, socially distanced gatherings.
For streetwear enthusiasts, cozy knits, oversized styles, satin skirts, and leather jackets were prominent. Lingerie-inspired details and bodice styles also embraced the ambiance of dark winter nights.
Looking towards 2021, Milan introduced trends filled with hope. Influences from inclusivity, the Black Lives Matter movement, and sustainability shaped the collections. Spring/summer debuts highlighted soft pastel colors and bold 80s influences. Clashing prints and geometric layers stood out. Home-centric fashion continues, with straightforward lingerie suitable for those still spending plenty of time indoors.
Milan has led the fashion world for over fifty years and remains at the forefront, even in these unprecedented times.