St Marks Square is at the heart of Venice and for the first time in its history it was the venue that showcased a fashion event which was the unveiling of Dolce and Gabbana’s latest Alta Moda Collection. An Italian brand launching their show in and Italian city – it could not be more fitting! As well, it made a change from the past year where the front row of these runways were filled virtually from our sofas at home.
Within this live audience were many high-profile celebrities able to admire the magnificence of the surroundings as well as remaining eager to watch Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana deliver a spectacular show and as always they did not disappoint!
These stars arrived in style by boat, which included Doja Cat, JLO, Bebe Rexha, Normani, Ciara and many more. Jennifer Lopez attended the show making a fashion statement as she modelled a dazzling regal, floral print attire from the designers. Featuring metallic styled trousers paired with a jewelled top. This was framed by a floor-length cape in shades of turquoise and greens as well as a standout floral patten. The star posted a series of images on Instagram showing off her astounding ensemble in front of the backdrop of this romantic city capturing the glistening canals in the background.
These famous faces weren’t only included in the audience but also held a spot in the show as rapper P.Diddys daughters were seen walking the runway. As D’Lila stunned us with a sky-blue puffy lace dress followed by twin Jesse rocking a similar styled attire but featuring a colour palette of pinks and blacks. Diddys’ eldest daughter Chance was also co-ordinated with her sisters in an all-black mini skater style dress with a red bow cinching in her waist. These looks were showed off by Diddy on Instagram as his daughters stole the show.
The designers main aim was to present a younger side of Alta Moda as they claimed, ‘everyone thinks couture is for the old but that’s not how it has to be’, which is what prompted them to use younger models. This included several other celebrities children alongside Diddy’s such as Heidi Klums daughter as well as Christian Bales.
As a whole the Alta Moda show set out to celebrate the local artisanship and the culture of Venice as it did not only act as the location of this remarkable event, but it was also integrated into their collection. The models arrived in true Venice style by gondola and were met by a long red runway. That is when the true magic happened as the outfits they wore were visibly inspired by the serpentine patterns on the floor of St. Mark’s Cathedral along with the kaleidoscopic patterns of Murano glass. Accompanying the models down the runway was the classical Four Seasons concertos composed by Venice composer Antonio Vivaldi in the 18th century.
There was also an emphasis on satin in the collection as it reflected the canals which wind their way round the city with their silk like appearance.
‘A hand-painted illusion tulle and double organza corset dress’ featuring venice scenes representing the city and its creative culture.
Emmeline Bale wearing a ‘unique Alta Moda illusion tulle corset dress embroidered with brooches, crystals, brocade, velvet, taffeta and hand painted organza flowers’. These components worked together to reflect the beauty of Italian craftsmanship.
‘A unique Alta Moda look composed of an illusion tulle corset dress embroidered with flowers and bows in velvet, satin, taffeta chiffon and organza’.
The Alta Moda collection 2021 was rich with Italian culture and fulfilled its role of paying homage to the city and reflecting the fashion that Dolce and Gabbana are known for.
Words By Josie Cooke
