The Roberto Cavalli company has been through quite a lot recently: creative director Paul Surridge departed in March and a new owner is expected to be announced soon. The design studio carried on its duties, presenting a transitional Resort collection in keeping with the label’s style fundamentals: a penchant for hyperfeminine and seductive silhouettes and animalier prints conveying sensuality and a zest for adventure.
Patterns were reworked around the idea of metamorphosis, with hybrid creatures—a winged cheetah, a leo-rhino, and a horse with rooster’s feathers—gracing silk twill shirts paired with pleated kilts and sporty parkas. The same motifs were printed on shirts in the men’s collection. The Cavalli menagerie of leopards, zebras, and giraffes appeared on billowy chiffon caftans and loose trench coats worn with bias-cut slip dresses while a kaleidoscopic sunburst design was inspired by a chameleon’s skin.
The evening’s offering was consistent with the house’s codes, with sequined and embellished numbers exuding glamour aplenty. The menswear referenced the ’80s in its relaxed tailoring volumes and bold colors while elongated and sleek silhouettes were reminiscent of the ’90s, with animalier jacquards adding an exotic touch. A sporty vibe was apparent in leather bikers printed with alligator motifs and bombers embroidered with jungle foliage.