Know Wear: Baarìa

FW10 is a season to look back in time at austerity. Dolce & Gabbana used the Italian film Baarìa (which is likely to get an Oscar nomination) as their inspiration. The film portrays the changes in the Sicilian town from the 1920's to the present day. Just like in the film, the collection sees a certain style evolution.

The first part of the show was mainly based on shabby undergarment-based outfits in palettes of grey and worn-out shades of black —a nod to the working classes of the time. The main focus of the collection is, however, post World War II southern Italy. This part consisted of neatly austere two and three-piece monochromatic suits worn without ties. It was the kind of fashion-forward simplicity that, in Italy, one usually only sees from the hand of Miuccia.

As the hypothetical chronology advances a certain sophistication comes into the picture. Velvet and dark shades of burgundy and maroon enrich the garments. Newsboy caps stay persistant throughout —just like the white shirts and waistcoats—, only gaining slight colouring here and there as if afraid of flamboyance.

All in all, the FW10 Dolce & Gabbana man neglects any type of extravagance and finds elegance in the old Italian classics. Thank you Domenico and Stefano for proving that we can still hope for a return to better pre-tacky times.

It was an amazing experience to be able to stream the show live and write such a prompt review! I was also very fond of the pre and post backstage footage. Have a look at this behind-the-scenes shots including Anna dello Russo and Margareth Madè (star of Baarìa) who wears a beautiful white see-thru lace dress.