MILAN, Italy - Etro combined soft silhouettes and bright pop colours against cooler backgrounds for next spring and summer women's wardrobes, punctuated by bold geometric patterns and dramatic cutouts.

The designer notes say the collection aims to suggest the new Jazz Age, and there was plenty on display in Friday's preview show during Milan Fashion Week to recall the Roaring '20s.

Dresses were either dropwaisted or without any waist at all. Skirts were pleated or swishing. And flowing dresses of the simplest cut were layered underneath with pleated or frilly slips for a very feminine look.

Flapper-inspired dresses offered a simple interpretation of the era in plain black-and-white, set off by slicked-back hair.

But designer Veronica Etro also emboldened the look, deconstructing its signature prints to emphasize curves. Large cutouts on the sides and shoulders along with plunging necklines and dangerously low backs added drama to the collection.

Hemlines brushed the knee, but also fell to mid-calf and floor-length.

Not all the looks required jewelry. When they did, earrings were large geometric shapes in metal and stone.

Shoes were flat or high-heeled strappy sandals, or metallic high-heeled sneakers.