Gentle definition at Fendi in collection inspired by childrenswear

Show at Milan fashion week saw use of adjustable elastics and pull-tapes to unexpectedly sophisticated effect

At Fendi, where Silvia Venturini Fendi is leading the house founded by her grandparents through its centenary year, family is as much part of the sales pitch as the Baguette bag. I have been thinking about childrenswear, because I have a big family, and my daughter is pregnant with twins," she said backstage. Two grandsons made a cameo appearance on the catwalk earlier this year while her 18-year-old granddaughter is her fiercest critic", the 64-year-old creative director says. (When she calls after my show, I tremble.")

This season, Fendi adapted the adjustable elastics that feature in clothes made for growing bodies, making a feature of elegant grosgrain pull-tapes to add gentle definition at the hem of the jacket or the waist of a dress. The result was unexpectedly sophisticated. The casting, featuring men and women of all ages and sizes, was a triumphant showcase for how beautifully the shapes worked on different bodies.