Max Mara Celebrates the Legendary French Poet Colette During This Fall/Winter Season

It's clear that the Belle Époque, a period in French history characterized by romanticism, inspired the artfully crafted looks for Max Mara's Fall/Winter 2024 collection. While understated, the head-to-toe black ensembles prioritize purposeful layering and soft feminine lines. Japanese-influenced silhouettes are seen on the coats featuring kimono-like sleeves. The wool coats over sheer blouses and the skirts styled with opaque tights make for quintessential yet sophisticated outfits, with some being given chic black gloves and leather bags to finish off the look. 

The collection was heavily influenced by the French writer Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette, more commonly known as Colette.The chic officer's coats and peacoats displayed on the runway pay tribute to Colette's androgynous style. On the contrary, the delicate ruffles and crystal detailing add femininity to the skirts and tunic dresses presented, perhaps replicating the spirit of her characters.

In much of Colette's work, she describes the meticulous beauty routine of her female characters: the outfit carefully chosen to elicit compliments, the light veil of powder on the face, the hint of lipstick or nail polish—all the small touches women add to make themselves appear effortlessly beautiful. Perhaps this collection reflects that very sentiment. The clothes, plain and simple as they are, exude elegance. Perhaps it is the small, unnoticeable details that make all the difference.