By Robyn Langley

Dolce & Gabbana had a stage set for a fairy tale at this year’s Milan Fashion Week with a 2016 Fall/Winter Collection tailored to the modern-day princess of fashion.

This girl is far from a damsel in distress. With a military flare, she’s ready to rock exaggerated silhouettes and luscious fabrics. From velvet, which is considered one of the top fabrics of the season, to fringed metallic and beading, and everything in-between, the collection blended many different textures. It took a twist on the fairytale theme by mixing it with military inspiration and street style trends.

Though it was inspired by fairy tales, head designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana created a broad range of looks all incorporating signature Dolce & Gabbana styles. Embroidered images of bejeweled mice, crowned frogs, the evil queen, teapots, nutcrackers, teddy bears and birds stood out against bold patterns and classic prints.

Elegant full lace ensembles mingled on the runway with military style peacoats and patterned dresses, creating the image of a princess who does not need saving. A sheer gown embroidered with gold leafing, floral appliqués and a nutcracker paired with a bejeweled collar necklace was a notable look of the many show-stopping pieces. Signature styles like an off-the-shoulder LBD helped ensure that it all still fell under Dolce & Gabbana’s traditional aesthetic.

This fantasy wardrobe is a well-rounded and elevated version of princess attire — from coats and jackets to suits and dresses all of various textures and assorted silhouettes. Some coats, such as those covered entirely in roses or teddy bears, may seem cumbersome and difficult to wear, but are artfully done and speak to the whimsy of the collection.

Dolce & Gabbana ended the show by sending a glittery mob of over 25 models down the runway in similar pink and silver sequin cocktail dresses, leaving the crowd dazzled by a fairy tale.