HELLO MILANO! 23 hours later and there’s a major shift in temperature. From heated Sydney to wintery Milano: hello again Europe! Arriving late on a Thursday evening, we check straight into the unmatched 5-star Amarni Hotel, in the heart of Milano’s city centre and infamous fashion district. Waking for only the best breakfast at Mr Amarni’s hotel, it’s onto the Fendi showrooms in what ended up being an 8 hour appointment! FENDI SHOWROOM The way all of the best Italian dreams should commence, the Pre-AW17 Milano buying appointments began in the world of Fendi: A showroom of masterpieces where no small detail is overlooked. From decorations hanging over our heads, to each stud delicately placed on straps (and shoes, and bags), the world of Fendi is one where we would preferably love to live in for quite some time! Originating in 1925, the Fendi legacy began in Rome, and is led by Creative Director Karl Lagerfeld. Did you know that one of the Fendi sisters still works within the house? Silvia Venturini Fendi is the Creative Director for Accessories and Men’s lines. The house exudes distinctions of dressing for the modern woman through innovation, playfulness and overall craftsmanship. A constant marriage between elegant and romantic feminism, Fendi has evolved its identity towards a modernist edge and playful spirit. This season saw soft and symmetric silhouettes, focusing heavily on strong prints and luxurious fabrication. What can you expect to see this season in Parlour X, the Australian home of Fendi? Our picks include exquisitely crafted jacquard pieces in deep green, feminine skirts that only get better with movement and softer autumnal tones of white, peach and rust. Living up to the house’s playful nature, the Fendiruma (otherwise known as the Fendi Mascots) were placed around the showroom paying homage to Japanese pop culture and keeping a watchful eye over us for our visit. Leaving Fendi in a dream-like state, it was then on to the opening night of the Opera: Madame Butterfly at Teatro alla Scala Milano, the most famous Theatre in the world housing global phenomena’s since 1778. Even if you don’t plan to see a show, take a visit to this most special of places just for the breath-taking interiors and overall, awe-inspiring ambiance. A trip to Milano is nothing without tasting fine Italian cuisine consisting of, let’s face it, heavenly carbs. From delicious penne pesto pasta, to the best cannolis in Italy, even something so simple as to walking down the street can be turned into a full smorgasbord of the best food that Italy has to offer. One of the most culturally absorbing cities in all of Europe, history merged with decor and true Italian style introduced a literal feast for the eyes being inspired by the details in breath taking interiors of our favourite bar in Italy. Ciao for now Milano! PARIS IN AN INSTANT: BALENCIAGA PREAW17 SHOWROOMS Milano was short and most definitely sweet, although come Monday morning it was time to board our plane to Paris. Leaving the airport exhausted, a Parisian view re-energised us ready for our 4 hours in the fashion capitol of the world. To be part of such a turning point for a major fashion house is forever inspiring. From Nicolas Ghesquiere’s legacy, Balenciaga is now revolutionized by trailblazer Demna Gvasalia, pushing the Maison completely towards a modern era of consumers who want what Gvasalia is serving: a new definition of beauty. Held in an historic 1600’s building, originally a hospital and then a convent, when first laying eyes on the scene, you start to grasp the new and directional Balenciaga under the reign of Gvasalia. Following the solid aesthetic foundation he has already established, this season saw Gvasalia conducting voluminous silhouettes in the form of floral printed blouses and dresses. Bold reds and greens were utilised to add drama to seasonal essentials such as swing jackets and hoodies, which were worn off the shoulder and tied at the neck. Bold, 80’s archival inspired silhouettes prevailed throughout this season’s collection, adding a slightly theatrical accessory of the bonnet as shown on the looks board in Balenciaga’s showroom. A wide selection of Balenciaga’s cult accessories can be expected in boutique. As a result of major success within the global fashion marketplace, a continuation of the much-lauded Balenciaga Bazaar shopper is to be expected. The wearable statement and true ‘IT’ bag that graces waiting lists globally will arrive at Parlour X in light and navy blues and deep red and green. Après the Balenciaga appointment, it was time to depart Paris in an instant and head back to Paddington, Sydney – Australia. Until next time Europe!