Over 40 years in fashion assures us that Roberto Cavalli knows his audience, and this experience applies even more so to the niche youth label he’s overseen since 1998.
Although his collections often rely on a one-note “sex sells” flesh parade, he’s been working hard the past few seasons to decorate his curve-hugging clothes with imaginative prints. This move has helped boost consumer interest in the brand, but the collage-like nature of tropical-inspired prints for Spring/Summer 2014 might be too niche to grab the attention of the modern woman. There aren’t many settings where technicolor cheetah/tropical flower/plaid print jumpsuits with necklines that plunge past the belly button would be appropriate – even if you’re a shock-and-awe pop star or celebutante. Searing tartan trousers in shades of intersecting neon and bright yellow argyle sweaters will also have a hard time fitting in, even in a vacation setting. The strength of this collection relies on more accessible pieces like a loose, black maxi dress printed with lovely tropical flowers, a Birds of Paradise varsity jacket and a psychedelic python-printed sleeveless button-up. Just Cavalli’s prints are gorgeous – lively, colorful, otherworldly. But, it’s hard to imagine them in real life settings done up on crop-tops, bralets, and teensy slip dresses, and when this happens, wearability decreases exponentially.
Photos: Courtesy of GoRunway
