Roberto Cavalli the illusionist? Judging from his Fall/Winter 2012 collection, that is the new notch in his already decorated belt.

For this collection nothing was what they appeared to be; furs were printed with motifs of pythons, pony skins were transformed into crocodile, python leather was painted with tiger motif, and tops and pants were embellished to appear as if made of crocodile. Naomi Campbell, the brightest moment of the show, glided down the runway in a floor-sweeping dress with large palettes tightly arranged to appear as scales.

Short balloon dresses and skirts, made of fur or completely covered in embellishments, began the procession. Decorated pants and silk organza maxi dresses later joined. Jackets with sharply constructed shoulders added a rocker vibe to the free and earthy collection. 

Following the too-much-is-not-enough style, trunk-inspired bags mirrored the animal prints of the clothing, jockey hats were covered with feathers, furs or crocodile, large metal necklaces and bracelets depicting crocodiles and snakes were embellished with colored stones, sunglasses that echoed the sharp lines of the jackets were underlined with crocodile, and shoes were made of ostrich, python, lizard, and crocodile. All models - with darkened eyes and long, free hair - wore elbow length leather gloves.

This may be a collection of questionable taste - see embellished t-shirt paired with fur maxi shirt - but it was one full of fantasy and that is what the Italian designer is a master of.

- Damoy McKenzie

Photos: WWD