Sunday, February 27, 2011

Best of Milan Fashion Week

Versus FW11

by Grace Gordon

Versus revealed a new take on midriff-baring style on their fall/winter 2011 runway to much praise. Gone is the Britney Spears bare belly of the 90s. In its place is a midriff subtly revealed by sheer panels between the bust and skirt of a dress, and held in place by exposed corset boning. Though a little daunting at first, this look ultimately comes across as urban and daring, and sets the tone for the entire show.

The first look is the only “conservative” one in the bunch: a minimalist modern suit jacket/dress hybrid is paired with plain gray tights and sparkly platform peep-toes. From there, the same style suit is modified with a built-in corset. Next, the corset details are stripped down to their bare essentials and paired with a severe molded leather bodice and felt wool skirt. The entire collection telegraphed a tough, edgy, dominatrix vibe that was kept in check by couture details like cascading triangle prints and geometric fan patterns that tripped across dresses and pantsuits. The architectural sense of structure that refined and streamlined this collection was its winning point. Versus showcased NYC urban chic coupled with the sartorial finesse of fine Italian tailoring for a collection that was fashion-forward and progressive.