From the moment the first model stepped out onto Versace’s catwalk in Milan this evening, it became clear that Donatella hadn’t finished exploring the house’s vast archives for AW18. Following on from the certified extravaganza that was her SS18 womenswear show, the Italian label’s iconic prints reigned supreme when it came to the boys too. Here’s what you need to know.

TUPAC AND BIGGIE WERE ON THE SOUNDTRACK

The models stormed down the runway to a throwback soundtrack of bonafide 90s anthems that included EMF’s “Unbelievable”, Charles and Eddie’s “Would I Lie To You” and “Hypnotize” by Notorious BIG. Also in the mix was Tupac's’s “Hit ‘Em Up”, as the one-time Versace model declared ‘now it’s all about Versace’ (but then, when is it not?)

Meanwhile, 2 Chainz sat front row in a huge fur coat, having collaborated with Donatella on a pair of 'Chain Reaction' sneakers that were making their debut as part of the AW18 show.

THE ARCHIVE PRINTS WERE BACK

As with her SS18 womenswear show, Donatella was keen to pay tribute to her brother Gianni’s legacy this season. Revisiting the Italian house’s extensive archives, the designer presented a series of velvet overcoats, pyjama pants and puffa jackets bearing Versace’s iconic Baroque motif, while the signature Medusa head motif and Pop print of 1991 made an appearance too. 

THE COLLECTION

Oversized trench coats, bombers and double-breasted jackets were rendered in high-shine vinyl and animal prints, while boxy, panelled suits were presented in clashing plaids and tartans – a key motif for AW18 – with the trousers skimming just above the models’ ankles. Elsewhere, wide chinos were paired with classic biker jackets and sharp, striped blazers as footwear included thick-soled leather boots and bold, primary-coloured sneakers, as Donatella and 2 Chainz seemingly tapped into the current trend for ‘ugly’ footwear.

COME ON YOU VERSACE

Donatella seemed to have her mind on the beautiful game this season, which, given that the World Cup is just a few months away, isn't particularly surprising. Having posted a shot of herself wearing a Versace football jersey to Instagram a few days ago, the designer sent a series of bold football-inspired scarves emblazoned with the house’s logo down the runway tonight too; the ideal piece to pledge your allegiance to Versace FC with come AW18. Other accessories came in the form of velvet baseball caps and clutch-bags featuring the brand’s iconic prints, knitted beanie hats, oversized sunglasses and gold-plated keychains that hung from the models’ hips.