Milan Fashion Week: Dsquared2 Spring Summer 2011 Collection

After a very vampy Fall 2010 collection, it was difficult to predict what the Dsquared2 Spring 2011 collection would have in store for us in Milan. This time, however, Dan and Dean Caten went in the exact opposite direction, presenting a masculine interpretation of women’s tailored basics.

Dsquared2 did not stray far from a classic preppy look; the show’s staples included roomy trousers, bermuda shorts, and oxfords  with ankle socks. However, the Caten brothers balanced the boyishness of the collection with sexier, tuxedo-inspired eveningwear, such as black satin shorts paired with a white waistcoat lined with lace. Even a strapless black gown was not entirely feminine, with a black belt, ruffled top and oxfords. Considering how in-your-face sexy the previous show was, the masculinity of the ensembles actually emphasized the allure of a self-assured woman without going too far into androgynous territory.

That said, the show could have gone a little lighter on the oversized glasses. While they provided a nice contrast with the more feminine pieces, at times the glasses were awkward and detracted from clothing. For a collection that speaks for itself, the accessories merely weighed down some looks.

Like many Spring 2011 collections featured at Milan Fashion Week, Dsquared2 ultimately seems to focus on presenting pieces that were simple and practical for the working woman. What distinguishes this show from the rest is the understated seductiveness – that nagging question in the back of your head of what she would look like if she just took her glasses off and let down her hair. Photo Source: Elle.com