Lawrence Steele: Simply Divine
By Michelle Taylor

MILAN, Feb 23, 2004/ FW/ – Delicate piano playing and waiters offering champagne greeted guests at the small and intimate Steele show in Milan today, the second of what is set to be one of the most memorable fashion weeks in recent times.

Steele’s show was more couture in style than what usual ready to wear Milan is used to, without forgetting all the trimmings of recent Parisian catwalks, from top models to golden back chairs and white cushions, to the intimate setting of his maison rather than the busy and crowded catwalks of the fiera (Fiera di Milano, where numerous fashion shows are held for women’s ready to wear in Milan).

Steele is elegant and glamorous, making the women who wear his clothes feel simply beautiful and marvellous. Sartorial detail and chic simplicity are the keys to this nostalgic collection, the dapper thirties being one of the main influences.

This American living in Italy put together classy and exclusive looks, making this one of, if not his strongest show yet as he found the perfect mix between freedom and discipline, like the added volume put into the backs of jackets, flowing knee length skirts, divine knitwear and mini pleats.

Delicious fabric from the softest velvet to mysterious minks and warmest wools, his colour palette is simple and fitting in dusty pinks, tans and greens mixed with classic black.

His woman is unbearably sensual as she is oblivious to bareness, covering up thighs and tying bows around her neck and accessorized only with the most sparkling crystals and diamonds.

Lawrence Steele’s offerings are simply divine and precious, soul style is not for sale but this young man makes that hard to believe.