Milan Fashion Week 2013/2014 Review

Fashion in Milan this season was very much a battle between minimalists vs non-minimalists, sporty vs floral. The soft hues from Max Mara contrasted with Dolce and Gabbana's claim to loud bold patterns. Jewel tones and bleached pastels also made an appearance, with more graphic prints and dramatic studs hidden away behind a layer of sheer chiffon or organza. A beige overtone featured in almost every show, providing a soft earthy and golden mood.

I think Milan Fashion Chamber president Mario Boselli sums up fashion week perfectly: "It's the week of youth - (it) brings a certain energy."

Dolce & Gabbana

Feminine floral and lace details highlighted Dolce and Gabbana's collection, once again inspired by Sicilian influences. The Sicilian almond blossom pattern lends a nod to Asian styles as rich reds, golden tones and pale pinks featured heavily in the collection. The floral detailing on each look was exquisite, made complete with dainty floral headpieces. Each item was styled with a neutral heel, accentuating the intricate patterns and artisan workmanship that went into every piece of the collection. The gold coins on a flared skirt that contrasted with the delicate blossom top was one of my favourite combinations, as were the simple sheer lace dress with bell sleeves and the textured rich red short suit and skirt.

Emilio Pucci

Perfectly capturing street style meets runway, Emilio Pucci's collection screamed confidence. Punches of blues, purples and red highlighted the sporty theme, which was softened with embroidered details. Barely-there bustier tops as well as minimal minidresses worn under intricately beaded mesh tubes were contrasted with sharp leather running shorts and brightly patterned cropped tuxedo jackets.

Fausto Puglisi

A newcomer to the runway, Fausto Puglisi's collection raised plenty of eyebrows as leather biker jackets were panelled with compilicated constructions or embellished with studs in the shape of palm trees or swirls. Flared A-line skirts in bright scarlet dotted the catwalk alongside tough bondage-style leather bras. Palm trees were a recurring motif as golden applique pailettes on long slinky skirts and red silk twill shirts.

Gucci

Frida Giannini was certainly inspired by her post-pregnancy experience as her collection flowed down the catwalk. The fluid sporty theme translated well into Gucci's Spring collection - mesh T-shirts, track pants, and exposed triangle bras all made an appearance. A sleek silhouette and silk emblazoned with bold prints in vibrant warm hues paid an homage to Japanese kimonos which once again subtly showed an Asian dominance in global markets.

MSGM

MSGM is a relatively new addition to the Milan fashion week calendar, but the contemporary label has already developed quite a vivid reputation - figuratively and literally. This season, it was all about tiki Hawaiian motifs and punchy colours intertwined with fruity patterns. A white base provided the perfect canvas to paint a tropical natural collection, in particular highlighting orange hues. It kept in line with Milan's beige overtone with the neutral colour flicking in several pieces in the collection.