Confessions of a Fashion Writer: Versace S/S 2011

Contemporary bad boy at Versace. Italian designer Donatella Versace and British designer Martyn Bal created a collection that was inspired by the rockabilly boys from the 1950's. This idea came from photos taken from the famed American fashion photographer Bruce Weber. Versace had moved in a completely new direction this season with the debut of Bal who assisted Versace this season. Everything was different from the fabrics and the method of cuts in the clothes, The cuts were made for a leaner fit with rock inspired tuxedo pieces and a slim fit motorcycle jacket. They offered skinny pants that were taut at the ankles and short jackets referencing the 1960's. This lean cut also referenced similar work from when Bal was employed with Dior Homme. This particular collection appeals to a much younger clientele with its rebellious rocker sensation. The Versace look this season was rocker chic with the trademark Versace sex appeal.

The show was held in the south of Milan at the customized Versace theater with a gray and white Vorticist pattern visible on the backdrop and runway. The show opened with a slim cutaway tuxedo with a crossover closing that was paired with a two tone British inspired rocker shoes. The rockabilly idea was evident in the skinny pants, the slim cut rock band tuxedo pieces and the short jackets. The sheeny tonic fabric selection was visible in the jackets and trousers. The rock and roll sensation was prevalent in the slim fit motorcycle jacket and leather pants.

Admired pieces in the collection were the slim cut tuxedo pieces, slim cut pants and the silk shirts in a graphic Vorticist pattern. The silk robes and swimsuits were also very appealing and perfect for the next spring and summer season.

Donatella Versace with the help of Martyn Bal has successfully created a collection that was inspired form the rockabilly boys from the 1960's infused with the Versace trademark sex appeal. Bal has infused a fresh perspective into the collection that now appeals to a younger clientele. The Versace man is a rebellious rocker with a generous dose of sex appeal.. -Brent Billiman, Milan, Italy.