While Copenhagen, New York, and London have welcomed Fashion Week in a mainly digital format, with big brands taking high advantage of this new platform, Milan’s fashion titans have kept physical shows up and running. But the controversy around these decisions has today been put to rest – fashion enthusiasts showed up and designers delivered a much-needed dose of creativity and vigor on the COVID-safe runways.
Fendi SS21
Fendi ‘La Famigila’ SS21 Collection images via Vogue Runway
The “La Famiglia” home movie gave us a preview of the new Fendi Spring 2021 collection, predicting a runway filled with earthly tones and shades of white and ivory. Beautiful imagery of key characteristics of the collection was featured in a video directed by Norbert Schoerner, before the runway show itself. A pair of pink textured sandals, an ivory blazer, and baby blue lace detailing were some of the extra clues we were given about the new collection.
All the hints from the “La Famiglia” home movie and Nobert Schoerner’s intro checked! The show was opened by sheer loose shirt dresses in shades of nude. The collection expanded further in different textures and we have seen everything from a tailored oversized blazer, to a re-imagined puffer jacket. In terms of the colour palette, Silvia Venturini Fendi has favoured white as the colour of Spring 2021 – from the décor of the runway, to the multitude of the pieces featured in a crisp white shade.
Fendi ‘La Famigila’ SS21 Collection images via Vogue Runway
Accessories in bright, strong colours (orange, yellow and pink) were the centre of attention. Matched with pastel blue or off-white, the chromatic of these looks is not only cheerful but modern and high fashion – exactly what we would expect from a brand like Fendi.
Fendi | Spring/Summer 2021 | Milan Fashion Week video via Fashion Feed
Alberta Ferretti SS21
Alberta Ferretti SS21 Collection images via Vogue Runway
A classic of the Italian fashion scene, Alberta Ferretti has dipped into different textures and cuts, presenting a variate collection out of which the dresses are – by far – the biggest success. Cut-out or sheer, in baby blue, yellow or tie-dye green, the Alberta Ferretti dresses are truly luxurious.
Alberta Ferretti SS21 Collection images via Vogue Runway
Bralettes and matching sets were also the stars of the show. Available in golden velour or in mosaic and floral print, these pieces are the trendsetters for Spring 2021.
Alberta Ferretti Spring Summer 2021 | Full Show video via FF Channel
Dolce & Gabbana SS21
Dolce & Gabbana, ‘Patchwork di Sicila’ SS21 images via Vogue Runway
Inspired by Sicily, the “Patchwork di Sicila” collection presented itself in a multitude of textures and fun patterns. For Dolce & Gabbana, Spring 2021 is full of fun and playfulness, reimagining the proportions and volumes of the Dolce & Gabbana ‘90s archive.
Opening the show with classical music and imagery of Sicily juxtaposed on patterns, the label created an emotional moment of belonging. Quickly followed by energetic music and vibrant garments, the tone of the show completely changes – happiness and pride shone through the collection.
Dolce & Gabbana, ‘Patchwork di Sicila’ SS21 images via Vogue Runway
For Spring 2021, Dolce & Gabbana have created sharp cuts, structured outerwear, and blazers in luxurious patchwork prints, ranging from metal mosaic to holographic gold and rustic. The designers have also heavily used denim for their unique patchwork prints, creating the jeans and miniskirts of the season. With these pieces, the label has demonstrated that artistry and craftsmanship can be achieved under any circumstances.
Dolce & Gabbana, ‘Patchwork di Sicila’ SS21 images via Vogue Runway
Dolce & Gabbana have always been all about grandeur as a label and it surely was reassuring to see that the pandemic has not changed that by a bit.
Words by Emilia Roman
Graphics by Frances Scott