On Wednesday, an array of celebrities gathered at Fendi’s Milan Fashion Week show to witness Maria Grazia Chiuri’s highly anticipated creative debut for the Italian fashion house. The event marked a significant moment in the fashion calendar, drawing attention to the new era for Fendi under Chiuri’s artistic vision, with Dakota Fanning among the distinguished guests showcasing her presence at Dakota Fanning Milan Fashion.
Maria Grazia Chiuri’s Return to Fendi and the Collection’s Highlights
Maria Grazia Chiuri, 62, formerly the creative director at Dior for nine years, returned to Fendi, where she began her career as a handbag maker in 1989. Her autumn/winter 2026/27 collection, titled “Less I, More Us,” celebrated Fendi’s heritage while signaling a fresh direction for the brand. The runway featured a variety of fur elements paying homage to Fendi’s roots as a furrier, with pieces including bombers, patchwork coats, and fur-lined parkas blending traditional craftsmanship with modern silhouettes.
The collection’s palette remained predominantly dark, featuring black and navy tones, punctuated by smatterings of animal prints, denim, and bohemian floral designs. Wispy fur collars enhanced silk and sheer eveningwear, while lace details were given a modern twist, appearing in laser-cut leather dresses accentuated by starched white collars and delicate bangles. Among the standout pieces was a sheer Art Deco-inspired dress, adding elegance to the diverse collection.
Front Row Glamour and Fashion Icons in Attendance
Front row seats were occupied by notable figures including model Iris Law, who wore a black slip dress paired with a furry cape, accessorized with large sunglasses and diamond jewelry, her hair styled reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn. Beside her, Hollywood stars Uma Thurman and Dakota Fanning caught the eye; Uma opted for a classic white shirt and suit trousers, while Dakota boldly revealed a hint of her lingerie under a tailored black suit.
Jessica Alba also attended with her daughter Haven Garner, 14, dressed stylishly in a Fendi three-piece suit and heels, both posing happily for photos before settling into their front-row seats. Yasmin Finney chose a bold double denim outfit accompanied by a tiger print bag, while Chiara Ferragni appeared in a silk dress layered with a long furry cardigan.
Industry Reactions and Ongoing Debates on Fur
While the collection celebrated Fendi’s signature use of fur, the decision to continue incorporating real fur sparked heated debate across the fashion industry. Outside the venue, hundreds of K-pop fans gathered with homemade signs and drawings for Fendi ambassador Bang Chan of Stray Kids, who was present at the show. Nearby, anti-fur protesters voiced their opposition, highlighting the continuing tensions between tradition and evolving ethical standards.
Fendi’s history as a fur and leather goods maker, founded in Rome a century ago, was evident in the craftsmanship and presentation of the collection. Despite the controversies, the fur elements remained central, demonstrating both respect for heritage and the challenges faced by the brand in balancing legacy and sustainability.
Emerging Female Leadership at European Fashion Houses
Maria Grazia Chiuri’s debut at Fendi came amid a wave of female designers gaining top creative roles in European fashion, a space historically dominated by men. Alongside Chiuri, designers like Louise Trotter at Bottega Veneta and Meryll Rogge at Marni are shaping new directions for major houses. Their leadership marks notable progress in diversity within the industry’s creative ranks.
Silvia Venturini Fendi, who stepped down as Fendi’s creative director last fall, witnessed Chiuri’s runway show from the front row. Reflecting on the experience, she remarked,
“It´s very moving. It´s the first time I have watched a Fendi runway show.”
Her perspective underscored the significant transition in creative stewardship and the emotions tied to such a moment.
The Show’s Lasting Impact on Milan Fashion Week
Maria Grazia Chiuri’s arrival at Fendi injected fresh energy into Milan Fashion Week’s mostly womenswear-focused lineup, underscoring the importance of innovation blended with heritage. Dakota Fanning’s stylish appearance further highlighted the event’s high-profile appeal, exemplifying the convergence of fashion and celebrity culture in this global stage.
Looking ahead, Chiuri’s creative leadership at Fendi is expected to influence the brand’s identity and direction in coming seasons, especially as the industry navigates sustainability concerns and evolving consumer expectations. The show’s combination of tradition, modernity, and star power signals a promising yet cautious future for the Italian house and Milan Fashion Week.
