MILAN, Feb 23, 2006/ FW/ --- Max Mara continues to successfully revitalize the label as it previewed its ‘new neopunk chic’ for Fall 2006, which is tailored and elements from men’s clothing added but keeping the feminine aura intact.

Edgy is an adjective that no one would think of describing Max Mara ten years ago. The ‘then’ description would have been ‘safe and lovely.’

But not today; as the label moves forward like the designers of the past and of the present, wherein in the turn of every century there is a subconscious effort to change the style of dressing, Max Mara has captured the zeitgeist of the moment proposing multiple variants of the coats and cloaks with fresh new proportions and volumes that is edgy, bordering on avant-garde.

Trench coats were cut straight all the way down below the knee or at the ankle, with the addition of a removable hood and extra-high collar that can be worn folded or up, depending on the weather.

The traveling cloak received the same treatment in terms of length, but was cut wider for volume and fur added on the collar for opulence.

The parka jacket became more tailored. Cut below the thigh line, and with big buttons as closures, it looked more like an outer jacket than a parka, except that it has the hood.

Giving a nod to the current trend of slim silhouettes, trousers were relaxed fitting but still linear. The tuxedo jackets and vests were snug fitting with soft tight shoulders.

This lean shape will be followed through in the tube top dresses wherein the skirts were usually flared at the hips using box pleats or gores, then cuffed at the hem, creating the 1980s egg-shape silhouettes.

A play on texture was prominent on the body hugging knit sweaters, knit dresses and skirts wherein stripes were created as sequins were embedded as part of the knitting process and giving the Ziggy Stardust glam.

With this bold move, Max Mara expanded its target market to include the twenty-something and college coeds.

And with the oldest of the i or ‘internet generation’ turning sixteen this year, these young ladies would probably borrowing from their sister’s wardrobe, or better yet, beg their mothers to get them Max Mara!

Max Mara

Max Mara

Max Mara

Max Mara