There were a lot of ideas on the Sportmax runway. Despite the fact that the press notes said all of them were inspired by "the chilly northern Europe portrayed in Ingmar Bergman s films, the timeless design of Arne Jacobsen, moorlands, and wide open spaces," it wasn t always easy to see how they fit together. But in the end that s of little matter. This is MaxMara s workhorse brand, and based on the trends we ve seen elsewhere this season, more than a few of the design team s propositions look destined to stick. Most obvious, given that this is first an outerwear company, are the multi-fur coats. In a similar vein, the duster that opened the show and the V-neck sweater paneled in fur in the front have brethren on other runways, and that will make them a popular buy with retailers. A bit more surprising here were the paillettes—the best iteration was the narrow, side-slit skirt worn with the ribbed peplum sweater. Again, though, given that fashion s two biggest names, Marc Jacobs and Miuccia Prada, have been using sequins, these pieces will be a good sales bet. On the other hand, some items—the patent leather peplums-cum-belts and a couple of backless blouses providing glimpses of neon harness bras—looked like plays for editorial love. The award for coolest outfit goes to the long quilted vest belted over a white button-down and burgundy ankle-baring trousers.
