Milan: where Dolce and Gabbana courted over couture, Armani cut his teeth dressing windows, Versace opened his inaugural boutique, and the Prada family sold their first handbags. In the 20th century, this trendsetting city in Lombardy established itself as part of a quaternity of fashion capitals alongside Paris, New York and London. Today, Milanese fashion houses are synonymous with luxury, quality and effortless style. Luminaries of the fashion world continue to flock here to debut their designs on its storied catwalks – and they do so during Milan Fashion Week.
Among the most important dates in any fashionista’s calendar, Milan Fashion Week takes place four times a year:
• January: the autumn/winter men’s collections, presented across four days
• February: the autumn/winter women’s collections, presented across six days
• June: the spring/summer men’s collections, presented across four days
• September: the spring/summer women’s collections, presented across six days
While a number of events are open to the public, the most sought-after sartorial reveals happen behind closed doors, during exclusive, invitation-only shows. Thanks to our little black book of contacts, however, A&K can gain you insider access – including, wherever possible, to the shows of your favourite designers.
Picture yourself shoulder to shoulder with the well-attired movers and shakers of the fashion world, as fabulous models glide onto the runways to a clatter of camera shutters. Admire a dazzling array of designs as established names reassert their prowess and newcomers seek to carve out their own reputations. You’ll be among the privileged few to see new trends at the very moment they’re set.
There is more to Milan Fashion Week than just the catwalk vogueing. Imbibe the high-spirited atmosphere and an aperitivo or two at glamorous cocktail parties, and revitalise your wardrobe at Milan’s myriad chic boutiques. A visit to the city’s world-famous Quadrilatero d’Oro (‘Rectangle of Gold’) is a must; amidst its glittering, high-end stores, Italy’s most iconic fashion houses are well represented.
After the main event, your VIP experience continues, courtesy of A&K. We can arrange private in-boutique trunk shows, during which a team of stylists and models will showcase the hottest collections from your chosen luxury brands. We can open the doors for a private evening visit of Milan Cathedral, an architectural marvel six centuries in the making; or the famous La Scala theatre – rounded off with a show. Then we can whisk you away to the shores of Lake Orta, just outside Milan, where Villa Crespi promises five-star relaxation. During your time unwinding amidst the retreat’s Moorish domes, arches and spires – perhaps adorned in your fresh Milanese threads – we can arrange for you to have a private audience and cookery demo with two-Michelin-star chef, Antonino Cannavacciuolo.
Of course, there is nothing prêt-à-porter about travel with A&K. Think of the aforementioned merely as a muse – just as Hepburn was to Givenchy – to inspire your own Milan Fashion Week holiday. Tell us your individual interests, passions, likes and dislikes, and we’ll tailor your experience down to the last stitch; after all, as Georgio Armani once said: “To create something exceptional, your mindset must be relentlessly focused on the smallest detail.”