Trend Report: Fall 2020 RTW at MFW

As Milan fashion week has come to an end, it’s important to note the impact that coronavirus had on MFW. Reportedly, Armani chose to put the well-being of others at the forefront of his decision, choosing to go forward with his show but only via a Livestream to keep the spread of the virus at bay as much as possible. As the great saying goes, the show must go on and it did. The fashion wheel is still turning steadily, so let’s get into the top trends that we saw on the Milan runways. 

Milan had its own take on thinking out of the box, featuring tent-shaped tops and boxy silhouettes that took over shows like Balli and Alberta Ferretti. Structured shoulders and materials with a stiffer drape (like sateen, broadcloth, and coating) are used to create the shape, that looks quite literally like a box. Leather, suiting and quilted fabrics were used to achieve this shape on the runways along with varying hemline lengths and other slight variations, some being slightly less structured or boxy. 

At NYFW midi lengths were seen through and through and Milan was no different, but alongside the midi length, the maxi length was also spotted. Sportsmax, in particular, showcased a breathtaking maxi dress made with a grid-like rhinestone pattern in a slightly sheer fabric that draped as beautifully as a charmeuse or voile. Overcoats were also heavily seen in the maxi, floor-length sorts like the gorgeous one from Krizia made with a laser-cut fabric with circles.

A sheer genius idea to bring to a cold-weather suited event: sheer garments. Many sheer variations were seen from casual renditions to more glamorous ones, used as overlays and single garments showcasing the peek-a-boo moments happening beneath them. Sheer fabrics were accompanied by feathers, beading, lace and other gorgeous details that helped to really bring each outfit full circle.

During the winter we all want to be toasty and typically fur gets the job done, but at Milan, I noticed an influx of textured materials that were likely made of nylon and acrylic or similar materials in a ton of fun designs such as animal and diamond prints, abstract art, and solid neutrals, too. Wool and very short-haired fur fabrics also displayed the textured look which was seen in garments from head to toe and even as accessories like hats, belts, and handbags. Textured fabrics not only add warmth but they provide extra dimension and interest to pieces which I would consider a win-win for the winter.

Our old friend velvet never left but really, why would it? It’s a fabric that’s truly a staple for the cooler months of the year, as it really retains heat. Sportsmax had a heavy selection of velvet which was full of suiting, including blazer dresses like the Setaria Dress and sets with varying bottoms; while Gucci decided to add the velvet in the details like in the wool dress below that features pleats, a peter pan collar, and bow made of velvet. Also, velour was seen throughout collections and is most easily described as a blended variation of velvet with a generally shorter pile and it was seen also seen at Gucci’s presentation along with quite a few of those boxy silhouettes that were mentioned earlier. Check out our embossed velour that looks like the pleated trousers from Emporio Armani’s collection so that you can achieve the same look.

While it’s easy to get wrapped up and overwhelmed with the news, it’s important to take back a moment for yourself to remember that fashion is an art that can take us away from reality for even a few moments. Another Milan fashion week has wrapped but it was one full of expression and exquisite pieces that I will definitely be recreating to some degree to add to my own wardrobe this upcoming fall. Stay tuned for Paris to bring us to the end of RTW collections for F/W 20/21.

Which designer had your favorite collection? Drop your comments below!