Fendi SS20

The scene was set. A glowing orange sunset at the end of the runway reminiscent of perfect sun-kissed holidays and long warm Italian days. The perfect backdrop for Fendi Spring Summer 2020 which was a rich hit of colour, texture and fresh air.

As I sat looking at the golden glow of the stage it reminded of a sweet Fendi memory of my own from just a few months ago while attending the Fall 19 Couture show in Rome, when the sunset cast a golden light on the background of The Coliseum as models walked the runway. It was a true pinch-me a moment and an experience I will never forget. But when it comes to Fendi, breathtaking moments are always in ample supply.

The first look modelled by Mona Tougaard set the tone of blissful relaxation and ease while the shiny runway gave models the appearance of walking on water. From just the first few looks it was clear that this, Silvia Ventura Fendi’s first RTW show as Creative Director, was designed to create a feeling of freedom and bright possibility, a ‘Fendi tonic’ if you will to treat the challenges of the modern world.

The collection as a whole was both a beautiful look forward for Silvia Ventura Fendi and a nod to the past with a playful and intelligent interpretation of some of our favourite sartorial decades. The ’70s came alive with updated and vivid paisley prints, serious suede, crochet mini dresses and a brown/yellow/beige colour match that we never knew we needed. The ’90s said hello with messy pigtail buns, platform flip flops, over-sized collars and slouchy open shirting that would make baby Drew and Winona proud. It was 70’s styled with a 90’s edge for the fiercely contemporary woman.

While Fendi Spring Summer 2020 features bold takes on a theme, it by no means gets lost in a them – This is 100% Fendi at it’s finest, look no further than the exquisite artistry and construction of separates and full looks alike; Jackets and skirts with perfected peekaboo placements, patterned shimmering organza and superb quilted tailoring designed to go from the boardroom to beachside in a heartbeat.

It would be amiss to discuss this particular Fendi show without highlighting intelligent styling and artful layering that made for such dynamic viewing, I for one will never wear an open toe block heel without a sheer sock or a micro-check bikini without a matching coat ever again. Not to mention classic Fendi bags shrunk down to be so mini they were designed as necklaces or barely-there crossbody accessories, taking my favourite trend to a sublime new extreme.

Silvia Ventura Fendi delivered her solo RTW debut with thoughtful consideration for the Fendi customer by designing a collection that is equal parts freedom, playfulness and fashion-forward practicality. If this debut is any indication, we can all be assured that the sun will keep shining brightly on Fendi while we get to bask in their golden rays… xxx