Italy in full bloom

It seems that spring has arrived early in Milan, and that is evident by the robust and colorful garments showcased by Italian designers during the spring 2006 shows. Brilliant oranges and lime greens and sunny yellows and cool blues lit up the fashion runways in frilly frocks, sleek cocktail dresses, trendy halter tops, ebellished and simple skirts and lacy ensembles. Designer Alviero Martini presented a showstopper outfit that featured a knee-length lime green skirt adorned with dozens of silk flowers in orange, pink, blue, red, purple, chocolate and beige. Popular designer Roberto Cavalli demonstrated why he has so much appeal in Hollywood with his updated goddess look that featured a shoulderless tangerine cocktail dress wrapped in gold metallic cords. Fabrics ranged from silky sheers and lace to denim and suede and leather. Many of the gorgeous ensembles were accessorized with colorful footwear and some were worn with straw hats, including a stunning widebrimmed cranberry topper from Angelo Marani. So, despite the chilly temperatures and snow-covered lawns, it's time to start dreaming of warm weather and skin-baring fashion. Let spring bloom in your heart by planning your warm-weather wardrobe now.

Alviero Martini's floral fantasy showcases the splendor of spring with a multitone orange off-the-shoulder wrap and soft lime multilayered skirt with bountiful silk floral appliques. Accessorized with green hat with and orange flower.

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SPRING 2006

Left: This breezy lime green and white ensemble from Aigner will catch a second look. Note the sheer shirred top with crisscross halter neckline that drapes into a long, flowing scarf,

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Right: Bring the sunshine to the party with this elegant floral print gown by Alviero Martini. The plunging V-neckline is accented with a chunky orange and yellow beaded necklace.

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Below: Roberto Cavalli reinterprets the toga with this mustard-hued asymmetrical mini-dress. The golden cord adds just a touch of goddess; the gathered bow adds a touch of grace.

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in full bloom

Above: Ermanno Scervino pairs denim skirt and ruffled top to create this sophisticated urban look. Accessorized with ankle-wrap tasseled sandals with gold accents and large handbag with tassels.

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The boldness of Alviero Martini's studded sky-blue leather vest is balanced with a soft, embellished skirt that gradually blends the colors of the sea. Accessorized with matching sandals and leather belt.

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Left: Roberto Cavalli pays homage to femininity with vivid, opulently ruffled yellow and white checkered blouse and belted skirt.

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Left: Ermanno Scervino's free-flowing, knee-length dress with unfinished edges denotes simplicity; yet the pagoda style sleeves, embroidered lace inset and plunging neckline evoke daring elegance. Accessorized with large green beads and green sandals.

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Right: Unrath Strano's serpentine style, sea green and aquamarine cocktail dress has a thigh high split and butterfly and snake embellishments. Animal print stockings (with phone attached) evoke the call of the wild.

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Left: Angelo Marani's charming beige top with Chantilly lace midriff and embellishment on sleeves is inviting. The designer masters mystique with a stunning oversized cranberry brim. Draped turquoise, celery green and cream necklaces, and wide leather belt complete this stylish look.

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COPYRIGHT 2006 Johnson Publishing Co.
COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning