From Paris to… Milan

February: one of the most exciting months in a designer’s calendar.

Yes, it is that time of the year when the fashion capitals of the world each become a global stage, displaying some of the most inspired pieces of art in clothing history. Each show works as a crystal ball, envisioning what people can expect their fashion icons to be wearing this Autumn/Winter 2013. Of course, it does seem rather pointless planning one’s wardrobe so far in advance; many readers will scoff at the idea of it, and read ahead as quickly as one can say “Giorgio Armani”. However, for those of you with a burning passion for fashion – pardon the pun – read on to gain an insight into which cities designers choose to showcase their talents, and what audiences can expect from different brands this season.

After kicking-off in New York City, designers made their way to London between 15th and 19th of February. Home to the renowned Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design, which boasts alumni from Alexander McQueen to Stella McCartney, London’s role during Fashion Week is synonymous with publicizing new talent. The typical career journey of a budding graduate is to star in one of London Fashion Week’s degree shows, providing press coverage and propelling the most talented designers towards either gaining their own shows in upcoming years, or becoming protégés of bigger names. Once the graduate becomes established, they seize the opportunity to show in the more ‘serious’ fashion capitals: Milan and Paris. Although this stereotype appears to burden each creation that sashays down London’s catwalks, it should be remembered that London is the birthplace of some of the hottest couture in the world. Designs such as David Koma’s sculptural dresses and overcoats, or the use of layered mismatching and collage-like designs of Michael van del Ham show the inspiration taken from our nation’s capital.

So what about the big names: Gucci, Prada, Missoni, Fendi, Versace? Of course, Milan is home to these Italian super-brands, whose luxurious fabrics and unrivalled elegance arguably steals the spotlight. This season, the shows started on 20th February and are scheduled to run until the 26th, with Milan’s graduates showing on the last day. Unfortunately, it is clear that the up-and-coming Italian designers are to be overshadowed by the immense publicity created by the elite brands. Moreover, they are not granted nearly as much exposure, as they are shown on a day that clashes with the opening of Paris’ Fashion Week. We can expect a revival of 1920s-inspired clothing from Armani’s collection, with an emphasis on velvet cloches and bowler hats, paired with angora jumpers and Gatsby skirts. Other highlights include statement outerwear, such as Fendi’s stripy fur coats, and a daring collection of fabrics, as seen by Gucci’s raunchy combination of silk and reptile skin.

Last, but certainly not least, is Paris Fashion Week – the mother of all things crazy and haute couture. For the grand finale of this season’s Autumn/Winter collections, running from Thursday 26th February till Wednesday 6th March, designers will be showing their Ready-to-Wear ranges. But don’t let your depressingly empty bank account put you off! Although the powerhouses such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Alexander McQueen will be patrolling their ‘more affordable’ ranges down the catwalk – yeah right! – there will be some familiar high street faces, including H&M’s Fashion Week debut.

Suffice to say, the winter blues will be minimal this year with such stunning collections from your favourite brands!