Miuccia Prada embraced her new found angst and ferocious sexappeal by saying, "We women should go back to strength—and the sober side. Stop trying to appeal to everyone, and go out into the world." An ex-communist and political scientist, Prada doesn’t merely design clothes, she makes social commentary. Hence, it seems only befitting that after embracing lady chic, the modista Italiana has abandoned her prim and proper creations for solemn, serious and intellectual wear. Shunning pretty girls, all dolled up for a premium spot on a towering pedestal, Prada cheers on the working girl, toting a briefcase filled with litigations and Dostoevsky’s the Brothers Karamazov for a bit of light reading on the metro.

Prada’s new urban Ivy Leaguer is not preoccupied with prettiness and ornamentation. She prefers moody hues like charcoal, grey, mossy green and black. She throws on an ill fitted pair of trousers and an oversized sweater, topped off by a waterproof parka, and off she goes to the MET to view the latest Santiago Calatrava sculpture exhibit. As for after dark: Miuccia’s unlikely heroine might opt for a tiny bit of embellishment on the bustline, pockets or waist of her evening ensembles, but ultimately her strong personality overpowers all ornamentation.

Prada is an undisputed fashion leader. At it time when others are following in her footsteps, it is only natural that she is changing her tune to push the boundaries just a little bit further. After all, defiance is her forte.

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