Dolce & Gabbana Fall/Winter 2017

The most recent release from Dolce & Gabbana illustrates a juvenile charm with assiduous elegance. The collection is a sartorial meditation for the youth culture powered by self-indulgent social media. It immerses us in the global zeitgeist in which commerce and culture are interconnected through technology. The easiest understanding of the latter fact is the designer’s use of social media mavericks as models in the show. Everyone from Cameron Dallas to Diggy Simmons and Tinie Tempah. More than just the personnel stomping the runway, the clothing spoke a language of modernity with striking clarity. Embroidered denim jackets, patterned sweaters with cup sole sneakers, silk pajamas worn as daytime garb, cropped bottoms, etc. The most symbolical item featured, truly indicative of the spirit of the times, is the animal print hoodie with the stuffed animal head. When the latter is followed by a shawl lapel blazer, albeit in bright yellow, there is a visible sense of studied nuance. While this collection is no more evolved than what the design duo has showcased in recent seasons, the beauty of the garments and the way they place so perfectly in the energy of today is enticing. It would be even more compelling to see something unexpected and forward pushing from such seasoned and well-tenured creatives.