Hours after West Hollywood became the first American state to ban the sale of fur, Karl Lagerfeld sent knee-length gilets in the fabric down a Milan catwalk.
The Fendi show, which took place this morning, also saw fur used to create a large broach in peacock blue and served to remind animal rights activists that where Milanese fashion is concerned, the controversial fabric is still considered hugely important.
This being a spring/summer offering the quantity of fur included was relatively small. The collection's mainstay was a number of easy-breezy a-line skirts and dresses which were offered in a host of fabrics.
Inspired by a sweltering hot Roman summer, the silhouette was soft and, on occasion, slouchy. Linen and striped stiff cotton from came in hues of navy blue and beige. Dresses, perfectly suited to balmy summer days, featured heavy pleating and ruffles. The classic collar was reinvented in a host of forms; an asymmetric trim detailed
the neck-lines of swinging sun-dresses while rectangular ties were worn over white shirts.
For evening, Fendi offered a sheer silk, floor-length gown which was detailed with tiny black beads. In line with the 1920's revival which
has picked up pace during the Milan round of shows, the dress swung beautifully behind the model as she walked. The collection's notable
highlights included a beautifully cut blazer which was cut away at the shoulder and an button-through milk-maid dress in sky blue.
