Jil Sander: Silhouette & Form
By Michelle Taylor
Photos by Giovanni Pucci

MILAN, Mar 15, 2004/ FW/ --- In a season where romanticism and gilt is the name of the game, Jil Sander chose to march on a different beat, presenting her signature minimalist style during the Milan Womenswear Show.

And if you’re thinking that the clothes are boring, vanish that thought immediately, because the collection was pretty and elegant, Jil Sander style.

Bereft of prints, ruffles and bows, but with a lot of color, the whole collection was about silhouette, form and masterful tailoring.

Take the 10-button jackets and coats for instance, a feat for any designer. For a lesser designer, it would have not worked. Yet Jil Sander made it look so easy, sending several on the runway in different colors and different cuts, from a slanted pocket to the traditional.

The designer’s only concession to gilt this season, a metallic skirt and top. With a deep V neckline, and pencil-cut skirt with a tiny belt at the waist, the Jil Sander woman is both chic and cheek.

Actually, the belt is one of the highlights this season for Jil Sander. Seen from skirts, dresses, jackets and coats, it is the most important accessory this season for the designer’s fans. Add to that the two-tone shoes, the Jil Sander lady can travel light come fall.

Other fashion critics might disagree with being ornate as the trend this season, but I believe that Jil Sander provided much needed fresh air after sitting through ruffles and bows at the international fashion circuit.

Jil Sander

Jil Sander

Jil Sander

Jil Sander