PICTURES: Monnalisa Runway Show AW23/24

As we took our coveted seats around the Monnalisa runway, alongside hundreds of influencers, press and buyers from all over the world, you could feel the sense of excitement building in the air. While the Monnalisa show has always been a stand-out moment in the Pitti Bimbo 96 packed schedule, this season it took on more significance than ever, being the first large-scale catwalk show to return to the line-up post pandemic. Many recognised this bold move as an affirmation of the industry's growing strength and faith that despite a recession and ongoing supply issues, that the show will and must go on.

And what a show it was...

With over 100 looks displayed in quick, well choreographed procession, we saw a dazzling array of outfits spanning occasionwear to casual wear, with Monnalisa's pervading sense of luxury and attention to detail present in every look. If this brand is a barometer for what's to come, expect to see plenty of quilted jackets, textured faux fur, colourful chunky knits and voluminous, floaty dresses accented with oversize bows and twinkling diamanté accessories for Autumn/Winter 23/24.

Children, including some Street Dance students and Virginia Bocelli, the daughter of Italy's much loved singer Andrea Bocelli, all made their way down the catwalk to rapturous applause and hundreds of smart phones pointed their way. One little boy got so carried away he paused at the end of the runway for an extended photo call, soaking up his moment for at least ten minutes before being politely steered and cheered back to the dressing rooms. The show rounded off with Monnalisa's creative brains, Barbara Bertocci and Diletta Iacomoni making an appearance on the runway, hand in hand with Virginia Bocelli, who wore a beautiful fuchsia dress that looked like a gown from one of Cecil Beaton's royal portraits, complete with tiara. Expect to see plenty of full skirts and sumptuous ruffles come Christmas...

>> All Photos by Emily Kornya