Versace creates 'urban luxury' for next summer

MILAN (AP) — Donatella Versace mixes street wear with sophisticated styles for her new summer collection, dubbing the flashy result "urban luxury."

Tough harness tops are paired with demure flared skirts, denim jackets are worn over a delicate floral sheath, and a chiffon dress is held together by fetching metal hooks.

"When you talk about luxury everybody thinks of evening gowns, but it's also about basic items like a pair of jeans, a shirt or a T-shirt," the designer said ahead of Friday night's show in the courtyard of the Versace palazzo in downtown Milan.

On hand to take in the new look was teenage idol Selena Gomez, a U.S. pop singer and actress best known for her role in the TV series "Wizards of Waverly Place."

Donatella also puts a lot of effort in the materials. She continues the techno research started by her late brother Gianni who was the first Italian designer to use chain metal, now one of the label's trademarks. This round Donatella came up with a ballerina skirt made of raffia, but enriched by delicate strands of silk. The skirt which appeared throughout the show either monochromatic or in a pastel print, was paired with matching blouses or bra tops.

Biker T-shirts and leather belts with a buckle in the shape of the Versace Medusa logo, heavy metal necklaces, and chain metal pouches and bandanas talk tough, especially when matched with the latest Versace footwear: a high-heeled platform sandal held together by elastic bands.

The soft touch comes in the evening gowns in pastel chiffon, truly ethereal were it not for the metal hardware which holds them together.

The summer bag is very ladylike, a leather clutch in delicate summer shades, which can unravel to become a practical shopper.