The D&G collection for SS 12 is a real plethora of prints. From geometric to heraldic, from baroque to naïf, passing by polka dolts and stripes, the foulard, in its many forms has been adopted by the design duo and reinvented for 2012. With the idea of deconstructing the typically bourgeois silk handkerchief and challenging its traditional use, Dolce and Gabbana have created a significant collection with strong cultural overtones.

 Taking the foulard in its purest form, (each swatch measures the traditional 70x70cm), as the foundation of the collection, the Italian design duo have created a visual feast. Unlike previous collections where mix and matching were at their centre, this season the effect is less like patchwork and more about actually tying together multiple handkerchiefs, lending it a more cerebral feel. Details like folds and knots take the collection away from the banal, giving it a fresh angle.

 Worthy of particular mention are the sky-high platform wedges. The upper is made of an entire foulard; 70x70, which tied around the foot becomes a silky, light as a feather peep toe bootie. In contrast, the wedge is made of wood and is printed with a different style.

 The asymmetric foulards tied in knots give a curve enhancing bodycon silhouette, representing the collection’s youthful mood.

Denim is central to D&G’s history, and even in this silk dominated collection it could not go amiss. Mix and matching of silk and denim hone in on the novel interpretation of the handkerchief.

The straight leg Capri style pants are a nod to the 60s, rigorously silk twill foulard prints, of course.

 The epitome of  the irreverent mood of collection: the foulard print suit. The jacket is in a tunic silhouette, while the skirt is as mini as can be.

As a further “reconstruction” of the foulard, mini dresses and tunics with matching shorts have been embellished with mini sequins to as texture, colour and a sense of occasion to the collection. 

In what has now become the highlight of the show, the traditional finale consisting of numerous models flooding the stage in flowing maxi chiffon dresses, did not disappoint for SS12. Flower prints, heraldic prints and baroque prints glided sinuously down the runway. This year, they were matched to traditional Capri thong sandals. 

In keeping with the concept of mix and matching, D&G accessories were also printed. Choose a contrasting print for the wedges and for the mono hard case clutch (which doubles up as a bracelet). For those who need to carry a little more with them, there are larger clutches available. The jewellery theme was constant- money money money! Coin charm bracelets, necklaces and chandelier earrings galore. Bring some street to you SS12 look by donning these mirrored gold sunglasses.

Watch the D&G Women's SS12 Video Must Have here:

 Watch the complete Fashion Show on Swide

Styled by: Yuri Ahn

Written by: Valentina Zannoni

Source: D&G