The animal kingdom is quaking. Tigers, lions, and zebras, oh my—Roberto Cavalli’s Spring/Summer 2022 runway takes a strutting walk on the wild side, under the creative helm of Fausto Puglisi. With very few jungle animals left out, the collection features prints and patterns aplenty. Displaying a well balanced mix of structured shoulders and blazers with flowing gowns and robes, each piece holds a sleek appeal and exudes power, up to par with the strength of the animals themselves. 

 

Leggings and unitards in cheetah and leopard are paired with flowing overcoats and oversized blazers, creating an effect that is at once energetic and dynamic. A mix of animal prints—one long sleeve top blends one sleeve in zebra and one in cheetah—play into this maximalist mindset. Forcing you to look right into the eye of the beast, the compelling image of a tiger’s face also makes its way onto a cut-out mini dress, a long-sleeve sheer top and floor-length skirt ensemble, and a flare button-up shirt and trousers. 

 

Keying into the notion of power within clothing, leather joins the fray in the form of a bra top, a studded and animal printed leather jacket, and a corset and mini skirt set. Emanating rock star style, chokers emblazoned with Cavalli’s bejeweled tiger brooch accessorize not only jewelry, but mini dresses and flowing dresses alike. One spectacular long sleeve, sequin mini dress is doused in bejeweled tiger brooches and gold tiger teeth—not to mention purple and green feather trim—to create a look fit for many a punk princess.        

 

 

Sequins and darker tones in black and deep purple, accompanied of course by a plethora of animal prints, devise an impressive fusion of sex appeal and luxury that is nothing if not fierce. Delicate floral embroidery on structured midi skirts and long coats is juxtaposed with leather and cheetah print detailing, ensuring a powerful moment of femininity. With a zebra interior and rich magenta and floral exterior, one long coat seamlessly pairs multiple aspects of nature. Unraveling at the seams, the coat, along with a pantsuit of the same fabric, adds an edgy effect to an otherwise delicate pattern. 

 

The true showstoppers, however, were the gowns. In sequins and jewels, with feathers and cut-out forms, in neon yellow and bedazzled animal prints—the flowing forms balanced beautifully with structured elements, like a strong shoulder or a metallic embellishment. Cavalli plays with vibrant teals, yellows, oranges, and pinks, proving the bold abilities of color. 

 

 

 

The Cavalli individual is, as the brand’s Instagram bio reads, “unapologetic.” Ready to take on any concrete jungle, this collection encourages unleashing one’s inner animal.