When it comes to fur, few brands are on Fendi’s level. For Fall 2012, Silvia Venturini Fendi and Karl Lagerfeld established the Italian fashion house as the premier fur brand in the industry. That, paired with exotic skins on feminine yet modern silhouettes, skyrocketed the whole collection into the luxury stratosphere. No piece was simple and straightforward: layers replica soccer jerseys, mixed textures and intricate detailing were at play in every design.
This is not your grandmother’s Fendi. Zip-front leather sheath dresses, fur pelts, and satin provided the crazier half to pleated skirts that were the fashion embodiment of “two-faced.” The brand loves a functional leather boot, and lace-up styles were on tap in Fall-perfect hues uplifted by crocodile print tights. Navy was a popular shade in the collection, appearing on puff-sleeve dresses, structured yet feminine outerwear, and tights.
Some of the most functional looks in the collection gave splashes of fur in unconventional and unexpected ways. From coat sleeves (both subtle and grandiose) to pockets, the brand presented options that will give women of no matter what style ways to incorporate the cozy texture into their everyday wardrobes.
Last but not least were the showstopping fur looks in unabashedly bold brights and oversized silhouettes. Will any fashionista be brave enough to wear a full-on antelope fur ensemble? Only time will tell.
The only thing I can say is, “Wow.” I’m very interested in seeing how the brand translates some of these awe-inspiring looks into actual ready to wear. This is the type of collection that really makes a statement in the industry and pushes the boundaries of luxury. The unapologetic use of fur was exquisite and will surely make some upset, but Fendi is one of the premier fur brands in the world and this is simply what they do. Solange Knowles, Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna and Nicki Minaj are all fans of the brand’s accessories so I can’t wait to see how they work the boots and bags in the coming months.
Are you feeling Fendi’s new collection?
Photos: ELLE.com