The Bally Fall/Winter 2023 collection was unveiled in an evocative parade winding through the corridors and gardens of a historic Milanese residence. The collection celebrates a modern take on the masterful Swiss craftsmanship of leathergoods and accessories that stretches back to the mid-19th century. A strong, elevated silhouette merges tropes of Hollywood past and present.
Ready-to-wear statements for day and night reflect the bygone grandeur of Da Vinci’s Casa degli Atellani, as its dark wood balustrades, scrolled ironwork, mosaic floors and opulent marble fireplaces create a rich dialogue with the season’s autumnal palette.
Elusive characters embody a cinematic allure, as a duality of comfort and modern elegance abounds: structured leather coats and sophisticated tailoring are layered with fine gauge ribbed knitwear and silk pyjama separates to create contemporary expressions of effortless luxury.
In a subtle play of depth, decoration and trompe l’oeil, the wardrobes combine the rigour of smart tailoring with sleek leather separates – the gold Bally emblem and bevelled Bally Spell, and the nostalgic touch of archival prints.
San Crispino, the patron saint of shoemakers, appears illustrated on satin in an archival scarf print from the 1920s, as a singular graphic statement amongst sleek moments of ‘corduroy’ suede, embossed python and lizard-effect leathers, plush shearling, quilted patent and velvet.
Stonewashed denim and pinstriped English wools add elements of contrasting casual and formalwear, lifted by harmonious accessories in jewel tones of burgundy, ochre and deep ocean blue.
The season’s accessories collection creates a bold counterpart to the silhouette, fusing classical European and Western influences in tactile finishes from velvet and suede thigh-high boots in soft earth tones, to bright embossed ‘croc’ and patent handbags and weekender styles.
The spacious Arkle is an equestrian-inspired ‘cabas’ tote bag in supple suede framed with graphic cabochon hardware. Elsewhere, the trapezoid Tilt cut-out leather shoulder bag returns in winter hues of chocolate brown suede and forest green ‘croc’, joined by a new barrel gym bag in quilted calfskin or Bally Pennant canvas.
