(ANSA) - Rome, June 3 - It takes a firm hand to work the contradictory inspirations defining this spring and summer's fashion styles.

Designers and trend setters have been urging women to embrace voluminous shapes while trumpeting the femininity of tight silhouettes; to go for bold hues while advocating the undying appeal of neutrals; and to think of power dressing while making a persuasive case for lacy gowns.

Yet as consumers have been left to navigate such diverse elements and choose which one to incorporate into their wardrobes, one mood has compellingly stood out in a number of collection - ladylike elegance with a retro twist.

The cinematic debate around Olivier Dahan's Hollywood film Grace of Monaco and its position as the flagship film of Cannes 2014 could be part of the reason why old-school sheen and regal glamour ticked all the right boxes for fashionistas.

The 1950s silhouette of crisp cotton dresses with wide skirts and a cinched waist, bon chic bon genre floral prints and retro accessories seen across collections could be worn around the clock to fit any occasion.

Prada embraced the mood as always with its unique twist in sophisticated cocktail dresses with refined geometric prints.

Miu Miu also went down the ladylike lane - yet with a youthful quirk which is part of its DNA - seen on feminine skirts, jackets and adorable cat prints in pastels.

Pinko debuted its own version of the 1950s cocktail dress in delicate lace and youthful bright colours.

Lardini vied for linen to give this fashion icon daytime appeal.

Aztec prints and fringing gave new edge to Valentino's collection in a palette of teal, purple and camel while showcasing the old-school elegance that has become a staple of designing duo Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli.

Little cardigans in cashmere or silk often incorporated the retro look along with printed silk scarves.

Gucci in particular revamped its stunning Flora print, a delicate pattern of flowers, fruits and insects in 37 different colours originally created for scarves. One of the fashion house's most popular motifs of all times, the original design was commissioned by Rodolfo Gucci, son of founder Guccio Gucci, for artist Vittorio Accornero in 1966 to pay homage to Grace, princess of Monaco, when she visited the Gucci boutique in Milan together with her husband Prince Rainier.