Prada's Purple Sand Had Nothing on Gemma Ward's Comeback

Before the Spring 2015 runway show even started, Prada had social media buzzing. In place of a typically stark catwalk were mounds upon frighteningly large mounds of purple sand. How would models traverse such terrain? Did designer Miuccia Prada design dune buggies?

Thankfully, no. The show began with the dramatic return of Gemma Ward, who gracefully walked her way around the sand dunes that still served as the perfect moody complement to the looks that followed. Thanks in part to an opening set of coats with raw hems and visible stitching, it was a dark and brooding collection. When there was color, it was in bold bursts, like a yellow sweater vest or an acid-green skirt. And when there were prints, it was in the form of a delicate floral underneath even bolder-drawn flower patterns.

As often is the case, the 1970s-inspired accessories at Prada held our attention — from patent-leather top-handle satchels to wood-soled Mary Jane platforms with knee-high socks, it was certainly buzz-worthy — no purple haze needed.