The Men’s Fall/Winter 2023 show season has started with things kicking off in Milan. Here are my 4 top favorites so far.
Gucci
There was a ton of anticipation for the Gucci show with this being the first one without Alessandro Michele. I have to admit when Alessandro’s Gucci reign started, it took me awhile to “get it”, having been so used to the sexy minimal glamour from the Tom Ford era. However, I was quickly charmed by the quirky, maximal, vintage world he brought in (My holiday tree look from 2017 was directly inspired by it!)
It was announced that the FW23 collection would be designed by the current team, without a lead creative director, and honestly I think they did a great job under the circumstances. The styling was definitely pared back, but they did show many pieces that referenced the DNA of Gucci (both old and more recent). I’m not really sure what all the sailor references were all about, but overall I thought it was a strong presentation. I’ll be very curious to see what happens with the next collection and if they will have named a new successor to Alessandro or will they continue with the collective approach… we shall see…
Etro
Another brand that recently had a creative change has been Etro. Marco de Vincenzo started with the Spring 2023 women’s collection. For his first Men’s collection, the setting was like you were in the textile factory. I really enjoyed the 70’s cozy vibes. The sweaters looked amazing, and I also liked the orange graphic appliques.
Zegna
I’ve been keeping an eye on Zegna the past few seasons because their color combos have been so great. As I mentioned in my 2023 colorwatch post, I am really into this mustard-y yellow color lately and this collection solidifies that. They actually had that color in their Summer show, so maybe this is becoming a new signature? Anyway, love the clean layers overall tonal coloring.
Prada
Finally, Prada-da-da. This collection was so inspiring to me, and my standout/favorite. Even though you won’t find me wearing a jacket with those exaggerated collar hits and no shirt underneath anytime soon (maybe tomorrow… but not today… lol) I really appreciated the statement. (I prefer the way they showed them with with a shirt underneath!) The whole collection felt new, fresh, modern, and so very Prada.
Next up is Paris, New York, then finally London! Stay tuned…