A New Paradigm ... Versace FW2014 Collection

It is easy to spot a Versace in a sea of designer labels – the medusa head logo (of course!) and the asymmetrical silhouette approach. 

While asymmetrical or bias cuts are usually reserved for the show finale pieces – the evening wear – Donatella Versace has expanded such sexy yet allure-empowering approach on her range of day wears too in the fall/winter collection.

Though the pieces are beautiful and relaxed yet still exuding sheer elegance, if I were to compare the fall/winter collection with the current spring/summer collection – featuring Lady Gaga as the house’s new face in multiple ads spreads - gone or tad missing is the high octane sexuality and sensuality.

The drapes are not as exaggerating as they used to be; no hip-high slits are seen (only thigh-high on the finale evening wear piece in petroleum blue) ; and cut-outs — one of the essential Versace design elements — are subtle and seen on the boots as well as in form of slashes on some of the ready-to-wear pieces. 

However, there’s a bonus point to this collection: In the midst of misty global economic situation, the collection displays a unique strength — not just physically but also emotionally.

Speaking of strength, it is inevitable that one would certainly question, “Where the strength of the collection could came from?” 

From what I see, the colour palette that boasts a striking blend of bold colours such as petroleum blue, fiery shades of red, yellow, black and white could be the supporting factor that purveys the collection its “strength”.

On the other hand, the strong point of the collection can also be attributed to the presence of military style elements such as fringed epaulettes, double breasted buttons and the chain of office (as seen on English mayors sans the Victorian Cross pendant) slung around some of the models’ necks.

Asian nuances could be spotted on several pieces such as mini black dress with Mandarin-like standing collars and capped sleeves adorned with red damask prints as well as a black, velvety double-breasted damask-printed coat with standing collar and biased cut skirt with contrasting texture panels. 

Pant suits are tailored to echo London’s stylish mid-sixties trend, which would remind anyone of Bianca Jagger’s white pant suit chez Yves Saint Laurent on her wedding day while fur coats boast fluffy texture, embroidered appliqués and raised-textured floral prints.

Seriously, there is no better way to channel out that tough yet stylish urban fighter out other than slipping those slender legs of yours into the high heeled shin boots in various permutations – multiple cut-outs, laced-up and richly embroidered.

Versace fall/winter 2014-15 ready-to-wear and accessories collection will be available at all Versace stores, selected fine department stores and multi-brand boutiques worldwide by autumn. 

*Photos by style.com

Versace - LC-G02, Ground Floor, Suria KLCC Kuala Lumpur City Centre, 50088 Kuala Lumpur; Lot 2.25 & 3.27, Level 2 & 3, Pavilion KL, 168 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur;  Lot H08, Passenger Level, Satellite Building Kuala Lumpur International Airport, 64000 Sepang, Selangor.