News Coverage Milan Menswear Show Fall 2001

The Look of the Millennium Man
By Boyd Davis

DALLAS, Jan 20, 2001 -- It's back to basics in Milan! Top designers presented their Fall 2001 collection for men's ready-to-wear - Giorgio Armani, Donatella Versace, Prada, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana and Calvin Klein are the names which you would see on the roster.

It's not really surprising to find the who's who in menswear there. Milan is the only viable menswear show. The whole world goes there. If you cater to the other half of the population, then Milan is the place to be!

So, what's the look? The messages are mixed!

Some says that the necktie is back! But when did we ever lose it? Giorgio Armani presented both "tieless" and "necktied" men. In fact, almost all of them did. It was a matter of "Are you in formal suit?" or "Are you wearing sportswear?"

Of course, Tom Ford's "dangerous liaison" with the waterfront and cat burglar look could definitely raise eyebrows. Vivienne Westwood's university man was definitely not what you would see in a corporate boardroom!

Donatella Versace went for luxury while Miuccia Prada went for simple and no-frills.

So, what do we really see in this mixed bag?

Men, like their female counterpart has found freedom in fashion. And it is called INDIVIDUALITY! You can be who you want to be.

There is also compartmentalization in the lifestyle. Necktie and double breasted jackets during business hours and the sporty or waterfront look at night. In short, the designers are giving the millennium man the same wide assortment on their wardrobe like they give to their female counterpart!