The recently concluded Milan Fashion Week  2020 was a cornucopia of delight for fashion insiders. Not only did style enthusiasts experience the best of Milan fashion, but we were also exposed to many exciting developments.

Prada’s creative director Miuccia Prada announced that she will be sharing the reins with Belgian designer Raf Simons (known for his namesake label, and his roles at Dior and Calvin Klein). Meanwhile, creative director Walter Chiapponi showcased his vision (and his first-ever collection) for Tod’s.

Among these gripping firsts were other shows that shone a spotlight on pivotal areas. Sustainability, of course, took centre stage with fashion brands like Emporio Armani, Tod’s, and Marni promoting fabric that was recycled and repurposed, putting emphasis on making wise fabric choices  that do not have a detrimental effect on the environment. Dolce & Gabbana and Gucci celebrated their artisans and their meticulously handmade clothing, while Fendi embraced inclusivity with models of all sizes walking down the runway.

Ahead, LIVA brings you four leading fashion trends  straight from Milan Fashion Week that need space in your wardrobe, stat.  

1. NEUTRAL COLOURS

 Natural, monochromatic colours like camel, sand, and oatmeal ruled the Milan Fashion Week runway at the likes of Max Mara, Fendi, Dolce & Gabbana, and Jil Sander. The resurfacing theme was models wearing the same shade from head-to-toe. Think: buttoned-up shirts and turtleneck sweaters matched with trousers, dresses layered with oversized coats, and accessories (bags, shoes, gloves, hair pins, and more) in the same shade. The result: A chic and simple outfit that bordered on minimalist fashion. How to wear: Team separates in neutral shades with matching accessories for a look that’s uber luxe.  

2. FEMININE FRINGE

Interestingly, Milan Fashion Week 2020 showcase brought back the fringe trend, presented in a modern yet whimsical way. Delicately cut strips of fabric added an interesting touch to the sartorially approved outfits. Subtle influences of the bohemian look were incorporated into bell-bottoms, blazers and bags by designers like Bottega Veneta, Etro, Dolce & Gabbana, Jil Sander and Prada. The focus, however, was less deliberate and more refined—we’re talking unexpected touches and clever accents of fringe that add a surprising detail to your outfit.

How to wear: Elevate your everyday look with clothes and accessories featuring minimal fringe detailing  

3. MASCULINE TAILORING

Etro’s Fall 2020 showcase at Milan Fashion Week saw model Irina Shayk in a sophisticated, tailored black tuxedo with a crisp white shirt. Gucci also presented tailored blazers, teamed with flared pants and matching ties in bold floral prints. Evidently, the suit has become a wardrobe staple, and we’re bookmarking these outfits under “evening wear”—for your next cocktail night, why not skip the gown and pick a similar tux?

How to wear: The key to ace this trend is monochrome styling. Play up a blazer with a structured shoulder teamed with trousers/pants in a relaxed silhouette to nail nuanced tailoring.  

4. POWER SHOULDERS

Exaggerated sleeves and a statement shoulder added much-needed drama on the Milan Fashion Week runways of Emporio Armani, Fendi, Marni and Prada. From sweaters and T-shirts to coats and jackets, the commanding shoulder + sleeve made heads turn every single time. Make sure to mark this style tip in your fashion diary.

How to wear: Experiment with dresses, tops, coats and jackets featuring a statement shoulder for an OOTD that’s bold and comfortable in equal measure, and makes you feel strong and empowered at all times.

Neutral colours, fringe detailing, tailored suits, statement shoulders—which trend will you try first? #LiveYourFlow