Destined to be shown under the glittering chandeliers of a Russian palace — beautifully mirroring the gilded walls, opulent furnishings and historic portraits hung high — Max Mara’s Resort 2021 collection was inspired by the magic and magnificence of St. Petersburg.
Originally planned as an exquisite show in the Yusupov Palace (prior to the pandemic), we can only imagine the beauty of a golden fil coupé skirt and silks printed in romantic bouquets walking through the palace’s ornate and storied salons.
Back to reality (and fashion’s new virtual norm) and Max Mara’s resort line offers plenty of transeasonal inspiration with the house’s unfussy elegance and rational tailoring meeting ethereal romance good enough for Pushkin, Tolstoy and Tchaikovsky.
Pairing refined smarts with antique-looking embroideries, the collection encourages us to mix reason with romance, classism with modernity, and minimalism with maximalism.
A straight-cut tunic in cream is softened by a handkerchief-hemmed skirt; a diaphanous drop waisted dress contrasts with the house’s signature Teddy Bear Coat; and a simple tee-shirt is decorated in tapestry-style florals and tucked into sleek, tailored pants.
Each look is adorned with details that reflect back to the Belle Epoque era — with inspiration drawn from the State Hermitage Museum archives and the ensembles worn by Prince Felix and Princess Irina — and mixed with Max Mara’s uncomplicated, yet elegant approach to fashion.
From dusty hued to separates, to modest-cut dresses and suiting in irresistible tones of caramel and taupe, Max Mara’s Resort 2021 collection offers styles for work, soirees or off-duty days — all elevated by a nod to Russian romantics.
