MILAN, Jan 19, 2006/ FW/ --- From a label that christened its diffusion line, ‘Cheap and Chic’, should we expect anything other than a tongue-in-cheek take on the world of fashion? In an industry that habitually takes itself rather seriously, Moschino, with its devil may care attitude, provides a welcome antidote.

It isn’t very often after all, that for an entire show one sees the faces across the room unable to repress broad grins: humor it seems, is as welcome in fashion week as it is at any other time, and believe me, in such a style conscious city you need a sense of humor to send a look down the runway called, ‘Fashion Victim’!

What should be taken seriously though is the fact this that was another fine collection from a team of great creative talent. It was a very eclectic affair with takes from pop culture and movies, so there is no point looking for trends as such although waistcoats, tartan and English schoolboy ties popped up here as they have done all week.

The Sixties surfaced with homage to the Beatles: narrow trousers, slim shoulders, thin ties and Mop-top haircuts X 4. Next it was the Seventies with a John Travolta disco reference: snappy cream suit; open collar and obligatory gold medallion.

Nor were the Eighties forgotten with pinstripes, braces and striped shirts giving a Yuppie feel completed by cell phones and take-away latte. Other decades were represented also but along the way we got cowboys, superheroes and priests to name but a few.

This could lead to accusations that Moschino were playing it safe in trying to cover as many bases as possible, but then again, could it be fashion as post-modern statement: who needs trends dictated to them when they can pick and choose their own style?

The show closed with chaotic packs of soccer players whooping down the runway, first in green shirts, then white and finally red. Viva l’Italia as the program notes stated. Yes indeed: viva choice, viva la moda, viva Moschino!

Moschino

Moschino

Moschino

Moschino