Notable Brands from Milan and Paris

The 2012-13 Autumn/Winter prêt-à-porter collections have begun. In Milan, just before the show, the resignation of Jil Sander designer Raf Simons was announced. It was deeply disappointing, as he had established his presence with couture-level, meticulously cut garments. Live flowers were displayed on the show stage, with models walking among them. The elegant style featured flowing cashmere double-face coats. Some outfits included dresses made from patchwork cashmere lace and knit. Sharp black suits and coat styles were presented. A collection of breathtakingly beautiful clothes was unveiled. The finale was met with tears and unceasing applause, a standing ovation. It was an unforgettable show.






In Paris, Comme des Garçons presented a stunning collection. The theme was 'dimension.' Garments that abandoned three dimensions for flatness. These flatly sewn clothes become three-dimensional through subtle inclines and thickness when worn. Instead of creating clothes to fit the body, the body conforms to the clothes. This marks the arrival of entirely new clothing that inverts the relationship between body and garment. Designer Rei Kawakubo's challenges are relentless.