MILAN, Feb 25, 2006/ FW/ --- ‘Fashion is fleeting, but style remains’ seems to be the mantra of Gianfranco Ferré for his Fall 2006 collection as the Italian designer ‘put an all clearer accent on the quasi-geometric purity and precision of construction and cuts,’ as his press notes said.

He kept his promise and did more, proposing cleaner lines and sharp silhouettes focusing on structure, fabric treatment and tailoring while highlighting the female form with classic adornments that were given modernized, even simplified at times to keep proportions intact.

The woman’s suit jacket was cut snug, defining the waist with an embedded belt then flaring slightly at the hips, giving a slimming effect. The shoulders boxy making the shoulders a little wider, keeping the proportions slender.

Opting for a moving waistline, Ferré created empire dresses, again with an embedded belt to highlight the woman’s figure. Then, he put it on the natural waist, this time using the corset as the base design, adding ruffles for effect or velvet inserts for a touch of opulence.

The color palette was regal – black, white, purple and maroon. The choice of fabric was opulent – wool, gabardine, twill, double faille, stretch cloth, satin and bistrech crepe. Both choices say one thing – the Gianfranco Ferré lady has a discerning taste.

And that taste was amplified with the eveningwear beginning with an all black gown the looked so simple in front, but the moment she turns her back, the drama begins. On her exposed back is a lacy material that runs from her neck through her spine. Beaded with crystals that sparkle when hit by light, Ferré’s couture past was very apparent.

To keep her warm, hussar style great coats come in double cashmere or silk velvet with taffeta lining, gain rich in glimmering button decors.

Gianfranco Ferré

Gianfranco Ferré

Gianfranco Ferré

Gianfranco Ferré