In Milan, during the eagerly awaited Fashion Week, Alessandro Dell’Acqua unveiled his N21 collection for the upcoming winter season. This show, presented on Tuesday, blends elements that are distinctively contrasting — merging high fashion with more casual attire, combining feminine with masculine influences, and presenting both delicate and robust styles.
Within the collection, Dell’Acqua revives timeless wardrobe staples, such as the classic little black dress that is adorned with a pair of bows accentuating the neckline or cut into a sporty racer-back style. This season’s knitwear stands out for its squared-off shapes and is set to become a wardrobe essential. These can be paired with cozy corduroy pants, elegant A-line printed skirts, or airy organza skirts accentuated with intricate beaded embellishments.
Bows emerge as a key theme throughout the collection, dramatically oversized on both dresses and skirts, which help define the overall silhouette. Overcoats are also a highlight, designed with exaggerated proportions or accented with delicate feathery details along the button placket. One distinctive piece is a barn coat crafted from corduroy, featuring a leather collar for a sophisticated touch — strikingly paired over a sheer dress to create an interesting contrast.
In a conversation backstage, Dell’Acqua shared that his inspiration largely stemmed from Sofia Coppola’s cinematic works, particularly films like “Lost in Translation,” “The Virgin Suicides,” and “Marie Antoinette.”
“I admire imperfections,” Dell’Acqua mentioned, highlighting the creative process behind his collection. “There are elements that conventionally may not seem to fit together, like the presence of feathers in unexpected places, but I believe that this unpredictable pairing creates a sense of fun.”
