Antonio Marras has long been celebrated for his ability to intertwine fashion and storytelling, often drawing inspiration from his Sardinian roots. For his AW25 collection, he unearthed a forgotten opera, La Bella d’Alghero by Antonio Boschini, first performed in 1892, and transformed it into a collection that was heady and heavy with a gothic glamour.

From A-list appearances, to screenplay show notes, below we broke down the key takeaways from the show.

THE OPERA 

Staged in Milan, the show transported attendees into a Sardinian melodrama, celebrating the island’s history and culture through a distinctly modern lens. The setting replicated the ambiance of a 19th-century theatre, complete with dim lighting and vintage props – all of which culminated in an intimate atmosphere that paid homage to the original performance of La Bella d’Alghero.

THE COLLECTION WAS GOTHIC AND DRAMATIC 

The collection was filled with historical references, including nods to late 19th-century Sardinian and Catalan attire; it also incorporated fabrics including pinstripe, herringbone, brocade and damask. Models walked out holding roses, while the clothes featured hand-painted portraits, floral motifs and musical notes, which reflected the amorous themes of La Bella d’Alghero. Meanwhile layered silks, embroidered appliqués and jacquard textures were juxtaposed with structured outerwear and voluminous skirts, adding to the sense of drama and romance.

HOLLYWOOD STAR APPEARANCES

With a collection so steeped in cinematic grandeur, the front row was bound to have its film stars. Elite’s Aron Piper and Hollywood icon Sharon Stone were among those in attendance. Given Stone’s history of daring looks, both on and off screen, she felt like a natural fit for Marras’ cinematic world for AW25.

Head to the gallery above to check out key looks from the collection.