SimplyAbuDhabi XV

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO AUTUMN/WINTER 2014/15 I n the Salvatore Ferragamo Autumn/Winter 2014/15 Collection, both touch and sight are intrigued, drawn in and captivated. Mysteries unfold as the seemingly impossible is achieved through the mastery of craftsmanship – trompe l’oeil surfaces are created from the complex intertwining of needle punching and jacquard. The focus revolves around luxurious materials and the precision of fine tailoring, the defining elements of the Ferragamo brand under the creative direction of Massimiliano Giornetti. The collection is warm, inviting, tactile. The ongoing dialogue between weight and airiness, density and transparency, all translates into a lively balance that continually changes. Strong coats, architecturally designed capes, and small blousons with sculptural necklines mask the delicacy of light dresses; thick mohair sweaters shelter skirts constructed with exquisitely treated pleats. The surprises are endless: ribbons composing a skirt unfold to illuminate a precious surface; a Persian coat is an eclectic luxury of marmot or beaver fur; a vest worn under a blouson and long skirt creates unexpected movement. Layering is textured, embellished and multifaceted: intertwining knots, exposed pleats, and evaporating spots. Flowing dresses, neckless coats, and pleated skirts outline a vertical and vibrant silhouette. The colour palette is a melting pot: an earthy mix of black, coffee brown, chocolate, sand and camel is paired with brick red, amber grey, or accents of bronze. The accessories represent strong elements that play a balancing role in this game of contrasts. The shoes evoke a modernity of a style that combines, in a perfect harmonising of opposing elements, the rigorous elegance of men’s tailoring with feminine highlights and precious details. A collection imbued with the codes of the traditional craftsmanship of men’s shoes: the handmade leather cladding, the hand stitching, the characteristic brogue pattern, the shape of the smoking slipper and the protruding leather sole with studded welt. This universe is translated into 11.5cm heights in an arrangement of intense femininity: eyelets applied on the upper as ornament; flashes of Giove metal detailing; and the precious hidden half-moon heel – fashioned as a single piece with the upper, concave and internally gold-plated. The iconic Gancio element transforms into a striking buckle on the instep, a distinctive detail on sophisticated winter sandals, fierce ankle boots, perfect hybrids between sabots and ankle boots, and high knee boots with moulded bootlegs.