There's a strong German thread in Prada's autumn/winter 2014 collection, particularly with Pina Bausch being Miucca Prada's main inspiration. Traces alluding to the avant-garde choreographer can be seen both in the runway show as well as in the items themselves. There's an element of performance about the collection: the men's trousers are more slim fitting, but the non-structured pieces are loose and resemble a dancer's clothes. To complete the look for him this season, top it off with a scarf (hand-sewn), loosely tied or not.
There are also art-deco representations, with square prints from the 30s and 70s boldly declaring their presence in the women's line. But just as striking is the metallic trimming on the coats. It's one of the key looks that create a sleek and structured polish to outerwear, while the monotone furs with hot colours make more eye-popping statements. When paired up with sheer silk organza dresses inside, a flowy look is created to imitate the delicate movement in Bausch's dances.
But as artistically influenced as the collection may be, it also draws shapes from the military and industrial world, with oversize military jackets and iron-looking wedges. The pumps, which look like they are carved from metal, are astonishingly light and are actually made from polyester.
This is definitely an act that brilliantly and strikingly weaves different elements together.
Find the Prada autumn/winter 2014 collection at Prada, ground level, Central Embassy.
