Roberto Cavalli Celebrates His 40th Anniversary in Fashion at Milan Fashion Week

After hitting the forty-year mark in business, Roberto Cavalli has proven that he’s nothing if not true to his vision. The animal prints and raw sexual energy – now synonymous with the designer’s name – were more striking than ever in the Roberto Cavalli Spring 2011 collection, which helped wrap up Milan Fashion Week on Monday.

The show reveled in exoticism; the models were intimidating Amazons with their dark eye shadow, pin-straight hair, and intense stares.  Snake prints appeared everywhere from dusty pink dresses to jackets and pants cut open only to be laced up again for an almost savage look. Crocheting and an abundance of fringe created webs on dresses and sheer tops, and everything came ornamented with intricate beading and sequins. Interestingly, although Cavalli is best known for vibrant colors and leopard prints, he eschewed both these signature looks in favor of more muted, rather romantic pinks, silvers, and earth tones.

While the collection arguably consists of subtle variations on a single look, no one can deny that Cavalli has mastered it. The craftsmanship alone is stunning; few can use such delicate silks and soft leathers to create  such fierce imagery. In this way, the show embodies the reasons for Cavalli’s longevity as a designer: spectacular quality, blatant sexuality, and a reassuring consistency in an industry that thrives on change.

Photo Source: Elle.com