This year’s Fashion Week hasn’t quite been like all others. With the pandemic putting many hurdles up for the fashion industry, the show still went on for designers and fashion houses to display their ss21 collections through digital and physical shows (COVID safe ones f.y.i). The hardship of this last year has affected many in many different ways, however, for the fashion industry, not even a global pandemic could stop them from setting the trends for the coming season. Safe to say, we were very impressed as a new era of post (and present) COVID trends emerged from the runways.
Minimalism
The move toward minimalism reflects the sense of focus and thoughtfulness that has emerged amongst designers post pandemic, and how we are focusing on necessity. This saw some truly beautiful garments. Fendi, debuted soft silhouettes, pale whites and used linen as the main fabric. Maxmara also adopted a relaxed minimalist approach while sticking to their signature colour palette. And Emilia Wickstead’s collection was also pointedly minimalist, in designs that were refined and nostalgic to prove that this seasons style was best derived through simplicity.
Going Trend Free
The idea of going trend free has been the talk of the town with houses like Gucci going seasonless. Nowhere was this more apparent, than in Victoria Beckham’s SS21 collection. Each piece was purpose led and far more covetable when it was removed from the energy of the runway. This collection suggests that we will be seeing more toned-down fashion, that is both calm and elegant, masculine and feminine.
Shimmer and Shine
Glittering fabrics were one of the biggest breakouts from the SS21 catwalk. With crystal embellishments, sequins and reflective patent leather, the traditional glamour and elegance of fashion week was very present. Honed by designers including Tom Ford and Givenchy, this glittering trend shows that while the fashion industry is changing, the energy of sparkling designs is still alive and is a great image of hope.
Reinterpretations
Dolce and Gabbana used fabric from previous seasons in an effort to lower the environmental impact of their show, Marni showed coats made in up-cycled materials from previous collections and Fendi drew inspiration for their collection from embroidered household linen. This trend reflects the fashion industry’s new found interest in looking inwards, and can be expected to be replicated in up-cycling of garments and reimagining of old trends.
Brown
Brown is the new black this season. We are always looking for a break out colour trend, and this year brown was everywhere, in collections from Jacquemus to Bottega Venata. This natural tone is perfect in minimalist and natural looks, and is a neutral to easily integrate into your wardrobe. The earthy hues make for a perfect way to ground feminine pieces and create understated elegance.
Relaxation
How we will dress post-pandemic is a topic that has been hotly discussed, and fashion week truly rose to the occasion. Armani showed silk sweatpants, while Max Mara debuted hooded sweatshirts and slouchers, with Fendi pairing outfits with slippers. Perhaps more than any shown this fashion season, this trend reflects our changing approaches to fashion and proves that comfortable dressing can still be elegant.
Words by Marni McFall, Graphics by Millie Pollok
