Armani puts Bermuda at heart of winter collection

[February 28, 2012]  MILAN (AP) -- All it takes to be Armani stylish next winter is a pair of Bermudas.

Well, almost. There is a lot more going on in the latest collection of the man who put the "moda Milanese" on the fashion map more than 30 years ago, but these chic iron-creased shorts are the centerpiece of the preview show presented Monday, the last day of the Milan Fashion Week for the winter 2013.

Worn on their own under a super-feminine blouse in a brightly colored print, paired with a tailored Armani jacket, or peeking out of the hem of a silk taffeta cocktail dress in coral and pink, they claim the runway and define the collection.

The new Armani jacket, often styled in woven fabric, has no lapel and caresses the neckline. Besides with the Bermudas, it can be worn with a pair of tapered slacks, and is often accessorized by a silk corsage.

Flat shoes with sparkling tops worn with dark stockings, while a Fedora hat with wide, slanted brim spiff up the androgynous and yet feminine look.

The Bermuda shorts, still iron-creased, but now in luxurious silk, also claim the night lights, coupled with shimmering sequined evening jackets, or worn with a silk sheath with a bare back and an intricate obi sash waistline.

The fur wear in the winter collection is strictly ecological as stated in the show notes, and comes in multicolored and shaggy, or mink look-a-like. The preferred styles are maxi pullover or ample cape.

"Easy chic," the name the maestro gave to his latest creations, perfectly describes the look.

[Associated Press; By DANIELA PETROFF]

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