Twin designers Dean and Dan Caten have unveiled a “makeup machine” on the catwalk, showcasing how identical siblings can be drastically different. Dean and Dan Caten, the twin brothers behind the creative Italian fashion brand Dsquared2, placed a “makeup machine” at the center of their Fall 2024 runway during the opening night of Milan Men’s Fashion Week. This fictional contraption served as a transformation hub, where models entered with streetwear-inspired outfits that were edgy and quickly emerged on the other side, looking significantly more polished in shimmering formal attire. Their metamorphosis resembled magic tricks, but what made it even more intriguing was that the entire cast consisted of identical twin pairs, adding an extra layer to the process.

“This season, we drew inspiration from ourselves,” the Catens shared backstage. “People tend to describe identical twins as being the same, but we have very different personalities. This show is an opportunity for us to express our different sides through daywear and eveningwear, with the participation of two actors.”

Overall, the collection could be divided into two main categories: raw and refined. Dean and Dan emphasized, “What we love the most is creating diverse styles within our collections.”

On the raw end of the spectrum, Dsquared2’s off-kilter denim pieces (many of which were covered in mud and snow) stood out alongside checkered shirts, creatively knit sweaters, and tank tops made of rugged cotton. Fair Isle knits sometimes came to life beneath the outerwear designs, such as studded denim jackets, and sporty influences permeated button-down shirts and jersey-inspired crop tops.

Meanwhile, the refined pieces were meant for memorable nights, featuring seductive stitching, premium materials, and intricate details. This part of the collection showcased plunging necklines, revealing dazzling jewelry adorned with myriad gemstones. Sequin maxi dresses became ideal statements for nightclubs, faux horsehair created a remarkable parka coat, and a disco-inspired jacket made it tempting to skip coat check and head straight to the afterparty.

It wouldn’t be a Dsquared2 collection without nods to Western fashion elements, and this season had plenty of those. Chaps reminiscent of cowboy attire revealed short underlayers and denim jeans underneath, held together by oversized gold belts bearing the brand’s Gothic insignia, likely to receive praise in the style race. Throughout the collection, the designers used hyper-masculine styles to create an open-minded wardrobe.