Antonio Berardi Fall/Winter 2016-2017 RTW

Photos courtesy of Vogue

There is something rather intriguing about the Antonio Berardi fall/winter 2016-2017 ready-to-wear fashion line, with somber lines and a gothic flirty attitude. The combination of strength and sweetness with a dose of human emotion, particular that of the darker nature appears in abundance on the London Fashion Week runway show, presenting models that have donned on surprisingly versatile looks that take into account the latest trends and invent a few of their own. With Bruce Springsteen’s “Dancing in the Dark” playing in the background, the lovely creations that took to the London stage had new life breathed in.

There was a certain tenacity for glamour found in this line-up, bringing the glitzed up eveningwear into the light of the day.“I started to look at things that were tough,” said Berardi backstage, mentioning a family member going through a difficult period at the moment. “But I realized that certain things that seem tough are actually very, very feminine.” When a designer comes upon such revelations, it is hard not to pay attention. After all, the tough but feminine appeal is beautifully incorporated into this marvelous collection that speaks volumes with every last cut and lacy material.

There was a whole lot of silver colored metal used throughout the impressive line-up, appearing everywhere from seam lines to riveting, and staples down the black gown’s torso. There was some funk, some punk and some pretty awesome chic happening here, which made the outfits truly stand out from the Fashion Week runway. It also suited London very much, fitting into the stylish dark ideal that we create of the city. The black was interesting for him to choose to work with though, since Berardi has never been known for using much in terms of the dark void of a color.

Photos courtesy of Vogue

From lovely suits to open-shoulder transparent dresses, leather coats and button-down pieces, there was a bit of an underground feel to it all. And then we moved into the navy blue lined lacy dresses and it took on a whole new meaning. The intricacies, the beauty, the positive inspiration behind each and every gown that was walked down that runway was pure precious commodity, the hems falling to the knees or full length to the ground.We love the ruffles and the fringe, the jackets and the skirts. We just cannot get enough. And then just when we thought it was going to be all black, the stark white makes its appearance and throws us for a loop with some lace jackets that we simply must have for the fall season at least, even though they would not last us a second out in the winter cold.

At the end of the day, those pantsuits are stellar and really make the Antonio Berardi fall 2016 collection. They are what add a dose of ready-to-wear reality to the creations before us, taking it from gala nights to general daywear, particularly to work. Those with a bit of a masculine side will revel in some of the looks as well, for the balance is completely held throughout.