Dolce & Gabbana in Milan

 The fact that Dolce & Gabbana has been touting the style statement of lingerie as outerwear since the brand’s inception makes it seem a little funny that this season is the first time in years that people outside the fashion world are trying out the trend. But staying true to their aesthetic while still finding new ways to innovate is one of the reasons we love D&G. I have no doubt they’ll be exposing undergarments for years to come.

Their style statement for fall 2010 could be described as “boudoir meets boardroom.” The designers featured beautiful suits for the working woman and luscious, sexy dresses for her evenings out. Corsets were prevalent (alone and under jackets), as well as sheer dresses exposing lace bodysuits. Large floral prints adorned coats and dresses – we also saw a bit of leopard print and polka-dots - while the bulk of the pieces were in solid hues. The color palette chosen included black, beige, forest green, wine red, buttery yellow, and heather grey. D&G showed tailored forties-style coats and collared, cropped jackets. The silhouettes were body-conscious, with pencil skirts and fitted tanks, as well as quarter-sleeved, knee-length dresses in silk and lace.

The retro glam feel of this collection would seem inherently at odds with the female-empowering statement of the business-wear shown, but the combination is flawlessly modern – encompassing the dual nature of today’s do-it-all woman.