SimplyAbuDhabi XII

S A LVATOR E F E R R A G A MO 2 6 4 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I A brand that is celebrated at home in Italy and highly desired all over the world, Salvatore Ferragamo’s range of luxury goods is always outstanding. The shoes, leather goods, and lines of ready-to-wear for men and women are simply a hit, year in and year out. Flexibility is the key to Salvatore Ferragamo’s latest collection. Hybrid clothes that are reversible, modular and multi-purposed. Functionality intertwined with aesthetic appeal. Technical tailoring is highlighted by carefully selected fabric. There is rubberised leather, felt- backed leather and nappa. The pea coat can be worn either way round, leather backed by felt, and the blouson is double-sided nappa with a removable lining made of shearling. The rain cape has an opulent cashmere lining with a leather trim. This is a collection for the independent, thinking man. Unusually, it could be worn straight from the catwalk, a sharp collection of wearable tailoring. Knitwear offers texture with practicality: high collars with graphic patterns – all straight lines and angular triangles. Texture is created through the layering, omnipresent in this and many other winter seasons. Materials are varied and fascinatingly different. There is neoprene – an odd wetsuit sensation to the initial touch, but warm and comfortable once overcome. Also present is wool, silk and knitwear. Kangaroo leather andmohair add wild, exotic touches. Colours are in a muted palette. Greys the colour of gun metal, blues in graphite and midnight sit alongside forest greens, blacks and the occasional flash of Ferragamo red, blue and white. Dour, sombre shades of beige and navy are accented by bold reds, spicy burnt oranges and zesty, musky greens. The footwear this season is marked by a utilitarian edge. The ankle boots and mid-boots with two- tone rubber soles look perfect for marching in rank and file – all the way around the city, painting it red. A ‘tank tread’ sole has been designed for exceptional stability and adds to the durable and strong expression. Open toed high-tops are the most courageous addition, and perhaps the least wearable. Bags are similarly practical and the duffle bag is formed of two materials – rubberised and natural – to add contrast. The tote boasts contrasting piping and the backpack has generous proportions. An eyewear collection is included that also mixes materials, such as rubberised plastic, metal and tortoiseshell. The result is a consistent collection that maintains the company’s sporty, snappy image. Zips – popularly used this season – adorn and shape items. Asymmetry, angular lapels, concealed buttons and sharp lines fuse casual clothing with a modernist inclination. Tactile, thoughtful, sharp and wearable, this is likely to be a hit season for Salvatore Ferragamo.