There was much of Alberta Ferretti's trademark wizardry with fine frothy silks and chiffons in her Fall 2012 presentation this season, but something else was distinctly present too.

Namely, a slightly tougher edge than usual - and we rather liked it.

Chunky knits and and masculine tailoring were layered over some of Ferretti's delicate feminine dresses in many of the looks, creating a sober cocooning effect. That, paired with a dark palette interspersed with shots of bold colour transmitted a feeling that for 2012, Ferretti's woman means business.

The sheer, glamourous red carpet gowns were there too - including one with an unusually un-Ferretti like graphic panelling scheme - but this collection felt like a bit of a sea change in terms of the Italian designer's usual direction.

We curious to see whether this is a one off, or develops into something even stronger next season...

Images via www.style.com