Celebrating her second season at London Fashion Week, Francesca Marotta's overwhelming Fall 2012 collection was presented under the words “Amore della mia Vita” (love of my life).

Influenced by the women of Sicily who have deeply loved and lost someone close to them, it came as no surprise that this time of grief was reflected in a predominantly black and sombre palette. Feminine waistlines and the use of silk, lace and cashmere reflected upon the women who, in all their mourning, still dress their very best. Bold touches of passionate red tones, blue and phosphorescent yellow were found in the jewellery - made by Miko Boyarov - and it was these tones that contrasted in a defiant expression that there is still hope for these women to live again.

The stunning finale saw a beautiful floor-length, see-through lace dress, adorned by a model with a thorn crown on her head, tears of blood rolling down her eyes and mouth. Slowly and entrancingly she danced down the catwalk as if she were to represent the freedom she used to have, thus causing a very deserved applause.