BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
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Milan Fashion Week witnessed an extraordinary moment of artistic brilliance as Prada unveiled its Fall/Winter 2025 menswear collection. Under the visionary direction of Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons, the show transcended conventional runway norms to become a profound exploration of human instinct, individuality, and creativity. By juxtaposing primal aesthetics with refined sophistication, the collection seamlessly bridged the gap between raw human nature and modern fashion innovation.
The collection’s designs were a vivid representation of untamed human instinct, blending the primitive with the avant-garde. Faux fur collars and rugged shearling details evoked a caveman-inspired aesthetic, setting the tone for a journey into humanity’s core essence. Oversized coats made from long-haired fabrics, alongside loose cottage-inspired plaids, redefined outerwear with a rugged yet elegant touch.
Western influences added a narrative layer to the collection, with scuffed cowboy boots, knitwear resembling wrangler shirts, and trapper hats. These rustic elements were further enhanced by unconventional details like floral-lined hoods, feminine brooches, and bold jewelry, introducing a sophisticated counterbalance to the primal aesthetic. This interplay of raw and refined underscored Prada’s ability to challenge traditional gender norms while celebrating the uniqueness in style and preference of each human.
Key pieces also included structured blazers with intricate floral embroidery and fitted tops that added a sharp silhouette to the otherwise wild designs. The overarching theme of the collection was clear: humanity’s primal instincts are not a limitation but a source of creativity and individuality.
Prada’s choice of venue for the show was as impactful as the collection itself. The Fondazione Prada was transformed into an industrial dreamscape, blending raw materials with opulent finishes. A towering metal pipe structure dominated the space, creating a labyrinthine set that exuded both chaos and order.
This industrial backdrop was softened by Art Nouveau-inspired carpets designed by Catherine Martin, adding an unexpected warmth to the setting. Blue, red, and white lighting illuminated the venue, creating a filmic atmosphere that immersed attendees in the narrative while showcasing artistic expression in a most genius fashion. The spatial design evoked the intimacy of a nightclub while maintaining the grandeur of a high-fashion event.
The three-level scaffolding created a sense of exploration, with narrow corridors and expansive halls that served to portray the complexity of human nature. Each element of the set design amplified the collection’s themes, making the show not just a visual spectacle but an experiential journey.
Prada’s Fall/Winter 2025 showcase attracted an eclectic mix of global celebrities, reinforcing the brand’s wide-reaching cultural impact. Actors, musicians, and fashion icons graced the front row, each contributing to the event’s electric atmosphere.
Among the most talked-about attendees was Australian singer and actor, Troye Sivan, who embraced a “librarian-chic” look that perfectly complemented the collection’s theme of individuality.
Several other high-profile guests were present as well including the popular American YouTubers and social media influencers the Sturniolo Triplets, the outstanding Romanian-American actor Sebastian Stan and prominent Thai actor and entrepreneur Win Metawin.
Besides Troye Sivan, several proud ambassadors of Prada were present. Stellar Nigerian-British actor Damson Idris was present as well as outstanding South-Korean actor Kim Soo-Hyun, Japanese singer Sana Minatozaki, British actor Joseph Quinn, Chinese actor Li Xian, British actor Harrison Dickinson and Italian singer Mahmood.
Fans of these outstanding individuals have taken to the internet, gushing excitedly about seeing them on the show and this is, of course, expected. Prada’s ability to resonate with diverse audiences by means of its shows while drawing such an impressive lineup of stars is exactly why they remain on the minds and the lips of people everywhere as they set the tone for future fashion trends.
Prada’s Fall/Winter 2025 collection is poised to leave a lasting impact on the menswear landscape. By reimagining minimalism through a lens of bold textures and unconventional styles, the collection challenges traditional notions of masculinity and attire functionality.
The incorporation of rugged, outdoor-inspired elements alongside refined, preppy aesthetics signals a resurgence of Ivy League influences with a contemporary twist. This duality aligns with broader industry trends, where practicality and individuality take precedence over strict adherence to norms.
Prada’s emphasis on creativity as a reflection of human instinct also paves the way for a more experimental approach to menswear. The collection’s daring use of materials, unexpected color palettes, and bold accessories will undoubtedly inspire designers and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Prada’s Fall/Winter 2025 menswear show was more than a fashion event–it was a celebration of humanity’s untamed spirit and boundless creativity. From the meticulously designed garments to the atmospheric venue, every element of the showcase reinforced the collection’s creativity and meticulous attention to detail.
Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons have once again proven their ability to push boundaries, not only in fashion design but also in storytelling. In an era where fashion often feels detached from reality, Prada’s Fall/Winter 2025 collection serves as a reminder that at its core, fashion is about human connection, creativity, and the courage to be unapologetically yourself. The show’s bold vision and impeccable execution have further solidified Prada’s position as a leader in the ever-evolving world of fashion.
