Milan Fashion Week turned political as designers used the runway to spread a message of equality and inclusion. Prada, Missoni, Versace and Stella Jean were a noticeable few sharing their voice through empowering collections.
Designer, Miuccia Prada explains, “I don’t want to be political. Not officially political." She laughs, “I have to sneak it in". The ready-to-wear Prada collection expressed inspiration from the powerful styles of women in past eras with hints of 50's sweaters, 60's flared skirts and 70s patchwork.
Designer, Angela Missoni provided guests with a cat-earred beanie in support of the Women's March. Among the Missoni brand's signature graphic patterns were sweaters showing messages of inclusion for organizations and campaigns such as ACT UP, AIDS Coalition, and free-the-nipple associated with women's rights.
Donatella Versace made her stance on women's rights unignorable. Under the strong pantsuits and pencil skirts, models wore sheer black slips with the words equality, love and loyalty embroidered in. Versace left no confusion in her message with the addition of beanie hats and scarves that read in bold lettering UNIFIED, COURAGE, and POWER.
The Stella Jean collection channeled the unambiguous relationship between the United States and Russia during the Cold War. Stella Jean's attitude towards the current political state is expressed through the combination of signature styles of both Russian and American cultures. The collection plays on babushkas, victorian-style laced boots and the clashing of mixed prints.
