You might not have a desert crossing in the diary, but Max Mara wants you to dress for the possibility. A safari jacket, something in linen, a bag that can accommodate a change of plans. For its latest collection, the house took inspiration from the women who spent the 1930s venturing well beyond what society expected of them – and made us to reconsider what we’re wearing to work.

Max Mara knows its woman – she’s confident, intelligent and usually the best dressed in the room. For spring summer, the house traced her spirit back to explorer Freya Stark, wildlife photographer Osa Johnson, cross-continental driver Eva Dickson and aviators Amelia Earhart and Beryl Markham. Women who had places to be and made their own way there. Max Mara channelled their independence into a wardrobe for the woman whose daily expeditions demand a spirit of adventure all their own.

Safari jackets led the runway – designed in textured linen and gabardine into shapes that sat and tied to one side or extended into long dusters, bringing glamour to a utilitarian staples. Elsewhere, camiknickers became shorts, while fluid gored skirts and slinky knits lightened the wardrobe.

The collection’s most compelling look layered a cargo vest over a tailored jacket in the same material. A very Max Mara solution to a busy day: impeccable tailoring, with extra pockets. Leather straps and D-rings detailed aviator-inspired jackets, while bags changed from crossbody to clutch to rucksack to match the day’s agenda. Anyone who has ever left home juggling multiple bags will appreciate the appeal.

Max Mara also found room for play, cutting utilitarian overalls in organza – an unlikely choice for actual fieldwork, but a compelling case for its modern woman. A voluminous trench with a low-slung belt loosened up the house’s signature refinement. These clothes offered room to move and, as always, a little romance.

Max Mara understands that its women navigate different expeditions today. The collection’s strength lies in how beautifully the house translated those pioneering wardrobes into clothes for the modern woman's everyday life. A good jacket, a useful bag and the confidence knowing wherever the day takes you, your clothes will adapt with you.