Roberto Cavalli unveils its SS18 women’s collection, showing behind the scenes action, and the details of its designs, before hitting the runway.

The collection can be described as a spirit of change, a mood of evolution- in his first collection for Roberto Cavalli, creative director Paul Surridge takes inspiration from the life of the modern woman- magnetic, strong, powerful, a chameleon, constantly in motion.

Focusing on building a dynamic and athletic daywear wardrobe, the collection is characterised by a tension between opposites and mirroring the different multifaceted identity of a modern woman. Staying true to the codes of Cavalli, the new line is a celebration of women, highlighted by fine Italian craft and premium quality, while transforming the mood.

A modern experience of glamour in a daywear context, Cavalli’s innate knowledge of leather is underscored, by the use of precious skins- translating them into an everyday wardrobe. Featuring stunning animal-inspired patterns of zebra and leopard in warm and natural hues drawn from the Tuscan landscape that underscores the house’s rich heritage and values, the SS18 line references to the past collections with an anti-nostalgic and forward-thinking mood.

Sportswear references craft an eased daywear silhouette with a focus on knits. Beaded gowns are as simple to wear, as a t-shirt. The clothes are conscious of the body, accentuating the form, with a modern sensuality emphasised throughout that is echoed in jewellery- bold geometric yet ergonomic forms of bangles and polished bracelets against the skin.

Flat shoes dominate, they lend the collection a utilitarian and practical air, an uncompromised freedom. Accessories underline this, which are focused on compact day-bags, in lizard, ‘cuoio’ and pony. Comfort, health, liberty. A new, contemporary breed of luxury.

The collection signifies a new chapter for Roberto Cavalli. It represents a shift in focus, a fresh approach, a change of attitude.