Max Mara’s showcase at Milan Fashion Week embraced the “nonconformist glamour” of historic female pioneers, presenting a collection focused on timeless fashion for the modern, adventurous woman. Under the guidance of British designer Ian Griffiths, who has been with the brand since 1987, the collection steered clear of shocking elements, opting instead for styles that individuals could see themselves wearing in everyday life.
A Focus on Versatile Elegance
The runway featured carefully tailored coats, block-heeled boots, sharp white shirts, and roomy suede handbags. Trousers, pleated and spacious, were paired with skirts that maintained elegance without compromising on practicality. The colour palette stayed neutral with shades of sand, chalk, grey, and black, making pieces easily adaptable to any wardrobe. Griffiths emphasized that the true presentation of fashion occurs when these garments are worn in everyday settings, beyond the catwalk.
Drawing Inspiration from Iconic Women
Max Mara’s current collection was inspired by bold 1930s and 1940s icons like aviators Amelia Earhart and Beryl Markham, explorer Freya Stark, wildlife photographer Osa Johnson, and driver Eva Dickson. Griffiths aimed to capture their spirit through modern clothing that, while nodding to the past, remained free from retro clichés. The idea was not to prepare women for exploration, but to infuse their daily lives with a sense of adventure and style.
Contemporary Urban Style
The collection featured urban-friendly pieces such as chore jackets, loose-fit trousers, and cross-body bags. Four-pocket overshirts combined the practicality of chore jackets with a hint of safari jacket flair. Stretchy halters cinched with D-rings and double-breasted blazers added a touch of sophistication, crafting a distinctly Milanese interpretation of how many women dress globally today.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theguardian.com.