Donatella posed this question following this afternoon's runway in Milan; Iridescence and Metallics reigned supreme for Fall 2009 at Versace today. A stunning assortment of asymmetrically cut, fluid chiffon gowns in shades of aqua, navy, and beige with beaded metallic detailing (some with diaphanous sheer detailing on the torso and bodice as well, right on target) won plaudits, and a selection of skirts and mohair jackets woven with steel thread was an educated twist on the metallic we've seen in other shows. Also, sequined cocktail dresses echoed nature with their fishscale meets snakesin texture- similar to what we saw at Fendi with their nature-meets-industry motif.
Like Prada, Versace really stayed true to its' roots this season: sticky sweet, glamorous, and irreverent. Backs were cut low, colors bold, and detailing was sumptuous and well-balanced. In these somewhat raucous times globally, it was reassuring to see this leit-motif of sticking to one's roots remain prevalent throughout the collections of the luxury houses this season.
"I think Alaia is especially important now because fashion is in transition and he's really about the roots of design in the body."- Glenn O'Brien, Editoral Director for Interview Magazine, on Azzedina Alaia.
Prada's Fall 2009 collection, in typical Miuccia style, gave fashion a check-up from the neck-up. The card-carrying communist sent an assortment of almost overwhelmingly sepia-toned looks down the runway, in very austere style that brought to mind a rally of the Facist Women of Padova in the forties.
Prada's showing, while practical, was still elegant in all the right places. The production, including the models' ghostly makeup jobs, made the occasional splash of color all the more energizing. Overall a fantastic presentation, however, in which Prada reminded us of her utilitarian roots.
"I love fashion, but I think it should stay in its place, not rule your life. It's a very nice part of your life, but I think it should be fun."- Miuccia Prada, UK Vogue
"Kitsch" was the word at Blumarine, and we mean that in the most fabulous way possible. Neon accents, leopard prints, and candy-colored gowns paraded in front of a Warhol-inspired portrait of Anna Molinari. The collection was fun, interesting, and made District L blissfully happy.
Above: The 
