MILAN, Italy — Alberta Ferretti is one of fashion's most enduring romantics. A wise and focused businesswoman, she nonetheless keeps on dreaming. Just look at the success story of her weekday jumpers, which boomed after hitting the catwalk in January. They sold so well, they made a second round yesterday.

They were probably not necessary, but it was a nice, realistic way to end a rather costumey show inspired by the beauty of Venice. Yes, Venice: the city of the carnival, of the gondola and of glistening opulence. Every possible clichè was given the poetic Ferretti makeover, coming across as fresh instead of staid.

There were capes, sailor stripes — on fur jackets — and even a mask or two, not to mention the embroidered lions and feather-encrusted evening dresses. In the end Venice diverted towards Boldini, and it all got very decadent. It was more fantasy than reality, but we should all fight for our right to dream. Shouldn't we?