More Than Just Grey: Maurizio Pecoraro

By Meieli Sawyer Detoni
March 9, 2009

Dove, fox, ice, and steel: this is just the start of a fun and wild romp through Maurizio Pecoraro's F/W 2009-10 collection. When you feel that black is too severe, but you want to have that understated cool look going on, aim right this way for styles that are business casual, first date, and dress-up day appropriate.

Since there's still a chill in the air, let's try to bridge the gap between seasons with easy layering pieces. Loose jersey tunics (with flattering drape) are easily paired with a number of structured separates like pleated skirts ($69.95)—try a more flattering length like just below the knee—and vintage-inspired trousers ($69.50) that fall straight from the hips in rayon or silk. This isn't a time for high-fashion trends, but for long-lasting classics that are instantly recognizable.

As for the shades of grey, this is where we get to play. Grey jersey is an undeniable classic, and even this can get dressed up to go out. Cowl necks ($53) and soft asymmetrical necklines ($24) are two easy ways to get a column-like silhouette for a dinner engagement, especially when crowned by a faux or real fur ruff ($198) or a wonderfully complicated overcoat ($199.95)—you can wear that one again next year, too!

If jersey just isn't glamorous enough for your taste, there are plenty of other looks easily made up from Pecoraro inspiration. A fine scarf ($124) can have an amazing glow under evening lights, so look for one in a charcoal color or a grey-tan tone ($78). Wear it around your shoulders with just the tiniest of clutches in pearly steel satin ($64) to avoid any interference with its drape.

It's not to say that Pecoraro's show didn't feature the basic of all basics, Miss Inky Midnight herself. There was actually plenty of black, but in a variety of textures and saturations that ran the gamut from shiny trousers ($68) to long-sleeved evening frocks ($88) covered with ruffles. Even the fanciest of pieces got paired with sexy tights ($24) with textural details like polka dots or a fine-webbed hose ($12). You only live once, after all, and this type of finery is just plain fun.

Black and grey are both instant classics, after all, but we can count on Maurizio Pecoraro to spice things up for the next season—or two, for that matter.

Soda Blu Cowl Neck ($53.00)

For a bit of classic elegance that's so easy to wear, we'd go with this Cowl Neck Sleeveless Shirt from Soda Blue. Banded armholes and cowl neck provide understated detail.