By Tali Shine
For day four of Milan fashion week, we took a break from the eighties and the overt sex appeal that has been taking centre stage and got something very different. Think granny chic, or rather sexy librarian.
The day began at Marni where designer Consuelo Castiglioni gave us what she does best; a mixed up, yet deliberately left of field and well thought out collection.
There were the signature bold statement necklaces made of both crystal and wood, as well as paper mache earrings that looked as though they are either uber expensive collectables, or wearable art work that your young child has brought home from school.
Textured fabrics of cotton, linen and silk organza were mixed with unusual colour combinations like coral and acid green, subdued brown with black and white and brighter purple and yellow. Prints, such as stripes, checks and tartans, were all placed together.
Even the evening collection took the same mixed feel and loose fitting shape as the daywear, with the use of embellishments such as crystals used to differentiate the look.
Are we daring enough to wear the collection in the way it came down the runway? Probably not. But taken as individual pieces and mixed with more classic items in your wardrobe, the Marni collection is timeless and investment worthy.
