Rita Levi-Montalcini, the Nobel Prize-winning neurologist centenarian who played muse to Silvia Venturini Fendi and Karl Lagerfeld for Spring, has left the picture, but something of that show's weird scientist vibe lingered for pre-fall. A scholarly green turtleneck sweater, for example, came with a black patent panel on its front, while a shift dress was constructed from fine black wool bonded to crisp white cotton. Playful experimentation defined the house's famous furs, as well: See the black knee-length coat with the white cowboy shirt-style yoke. Another strange yet compelling combination: a glittery green, white, and black evening top worn with drawstring-waist sweatpants. Then again, some looks were 100 percent glam, the show-closing white and black spotted gown and its matching fur coat being the prime example.
