Led by Gigi Hadid, next-gen supermodels show women are in charge at Milan Fashion Week
Brands and models express assertive femininity and resistance to harassment
The next generation of supermodels was out in force on the second day of Milan Fashion Week on Thursday.
Gigi Hadid, sister Bella Hadid and Kaia Gerber walked for Max Mara and Fendi as Milan designers came up with looks for the power woman – giving expression to a movement of women showing they mean business as they unite to put an end to harassment in all forms and define themselves as they wish to be seen.
Some highlights from previews of next autumn and winter, including shows by Max Mara, Fendi, Prada and Pucci.
Max Mara’s power woman
Gigi Hadid walked confidently for an early morning Max Mara call in a melange of leopard prints softened by woolly finishes.
“We use all those emblems of rebellion as emblems of power. This is a woman who is saying, ‘Don’t mess with me’”
A spotted sweater was tucked into a tight skirt and worn with a long Max Mara trench. The look was completed with leather gloves and suspenders, worn off the shoulders to show she is in charge.
The punk-inspired looks for a self-assured woman mixed leopard prints and plaids, the fashion house’s trademark neutrals and a dab of pink. The collection aimed to break down the barriers between the power suit and the punk world that thrived in rebellion of it.
“We use all those emblems of rebellion as emblems of power,” creative director Ian Griffiths said backstage. “This is a woman who is saying, ‘Don’t mess with me’.”
This silhouette veered from long, full blanket skirts belted for shape, to form-fitting ruched dresses worn over stretch pants or a pencil trouser. Max Mara’s stronghold, the overcoat, united the looks, many with fringe along the sleeves. The brand dubbed it the “they don’t mess with me coat”.