The Versace SS22 Show Was A Surprising Supermodel Showdown
Seventy-nine looks weaved around the Versace spring-summer catwalk last week Friday. One of the biggest surprises surprises of the show was Dua Lipa. Not only did she make her catwalk debut, but she opened and closed the show. The last time I recall this happening was in 2005 with Daria Werbowy. The honours were bestowed upon Dua for the night as she graced the speakers, sonically heating the catwalk.
As one would expect from Versace, the La Medusa Bags were on full display. Secondly, the use of silk patterns on the foulards was mesmerising. History does repeat itself. We’re seeing Donatella repeat styles from the fall-winter 2021 show.
Interestingly enough, there has been much controversy around covered heads in public. Donatella fully supports the movement for women to wear headscarves in public. The Versace brand has been incorporating this into their show for a few seasons, as has Dior.
Top Models
The most prominent faces in fashion always make an appearance in Versace shows. Firstly, Naomi Campbell made her return to the Versace catwalk this season. She walked closely behind Imaan Hammam, Cara Taylor and Rianne van Rompaey. The latter three models have been heating the runway this season.
Anok Yai, Emily Ratajkowski, Adut Akech, Precious Lee, and Mona Tougaard were also in attendance. Many models wore two outfits in this year’s show. The clear standouts were outfits worn by Dua and Gigi. Surprisingly, Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner and Kaia Gerber were absent.
Dua Lipa and Versace
Dua Lipa opened the show in a black suit ensemble to her song from the Nostalgia album “Physical”. They promoted the show with a surprise in mind, but Dua Lipa did not come to mind. Donatella and Dua have been connected for a long time with Dua’s street style, tour outfits and attending similar parties.
In 2020, Jennifer Lopez walked the show, and then we experienced the pandemic. I like Donatella using celebrities in her shows because it is on brand for her. Her latest designs have been prevalent on red carpets, with celebrities often praising the fitting of dresses by Versace.
