Armani offered up dramatic menswear-inspired separates as a mainstay for his Fall 2012 couture collection, and yes, there's wearability tied to most everything here. Armani began with fluid sets of jackets and pants in easy proportion. The wide-cut, boxy jackets and fluid, wide-leg, and velvet-finished pants don't short on volume, but there's an element of practicality in it all, most notably from the simple flats and the black velvet berets paired with every outfit. If you were dressing in Haute Couture every day, then this might just be the most accessible, especially in a palette that flows so effortlessly from easygoing daytime to high-impact, midnight hues. Lilacs and soft blues on Armani's separates and sheaths quickly gave way to something darker and sequined in the eveningwear that followed suit. Gowns were dressed up in rich navy blues and blacks, a flash of Swarovski sequins, or a pretty organza that answered the call of after-hours glamour.
- Trends: Sequins, veils, suiting, sheer, peplum, boxy jackets, wide-leg trousers, and velvet fabrications
- Colors: Soft blue, pink, and lilac; black, white, navy, and royal blue
- Key piece: The strapless pink sequined gown
- Accessories: Embellished veils, fascinators, black berets, sleek clutches, T-strap pumps
- Who would wear it: Hollywood A-listers with a sleeker sensibility; Cate Blanchett
