Trend Tracking: Velvet Not So Underground

(From left to right: Roberto Cavalli, Gianfranco Ferré, Burberry Prorsum, Dolce & Gabbana, and Giorgio Armani)
While many critics have noted the somewhat subtle nature of Milan’s fall 2009 collections, one trend goes decidely against the grain. Designers like Burberry’s Christopher Bailey have made the velvet blazer a soon-to-be staple in fall wardrobes. Roberto Cavalli and the newly installed Ferré designersTommaso Aquilano and Roberto Rimondi opted for velvet paired with shiny pants in leather (or otherwise) that may be perfect for a world tour, if unsuitable for Madison Avenue. While Dolce & Gabbana’s velvet suits and blazers were standouts from the fall collection, Giorgio Armani’s velvet blazer and waistcoat are ill-fitted for sartorial success.