Kicking off the first round of shows for 2012, Milan has provided plenty of food for thought for the new menswear season. Trends start to form: will autumn/winter 2012 be the season of the suit; one that focuses our attention on craftsmanship; one that inspires all men to grow their hair and sweep it back into a 50s flick? Whilst the majority of attention is focused on the clothing, accessories, styling and the "new faces", it's important not to ignore the interesting settings and environments of the shows.
"Miuccia Prada had the Prada show space set up as a court, complete with a huge, square, red patterned carpet. It felt grand; it felt luxurious; it felt powerful"
Primarily, a show backdrop sets a mood and can give valuable clues to a designer's train of thought. Take Miuccia Prada for example, who had the Prada show space set up as a court, complete with a huge, square, red patterned carpet. It felt grand; it felt luxurious; it felt powerful. Just like the 43-look collection which followed, giving new meaning to the three (or four or five) piece suit.
Giving fresh perspective on the recent round of shows, photographer Alice Rosati's snapshots, taken front of house, backstage and en route to shows, provide an alternative view of designers' collections.
