From Crayola-coloured dresses to exuberant florals and high-shine sequins, here’s everything you need to know about fashion for spring/summer 2021
When dissecting the looks for spring/summer 2021, it’s important to acknowledge the context in which they were created. Imagined slap-bang in the midst of a global pandemic, no-one would blame designers for collections that were sombre and muted, in simple silhouettes with subtle detailing. The results, however, were quite the opposite.
In a season like no-other, with their works presented to the world via livestreams, videos and shows with limited audiences, designers not only reaffirmed the joy of fashion, they celebrated it with jubilant palettes, statement-making accessories, powerful prints and amped-up versions of old classics that were designed to look fabulous dressed up or dressed down. Comfort was key too, with relaxed denim and summer knits taking pride of place in our new-season wardrobes – a nod to the increased time we’ve been spending indoors. Whether you’re working from home or looking ahead to a summer of socialising with friends, when it comes to fashion, all bases are covered.
Joyful Dresses
Reasons to be cheerful were few and far between in 2020, but SS21’s high-octane dresses pave the way for an optimistic 2021. Look to Molly Goddard, Halpern, Valentino and Zimmermann for your summer escapism.
Punchy Petals
As powerful as they are playful, live out your garden party sartorial fantasy in oversized florals that were designed to be noticed.
Mad As A Hatter
By their very nature, accessories are not the main affair. The exception? Spring/Summer’s dramatic hats. Take cues from Nina Ricci’s oversized cloche statement-makers.
Spring Knits
If cosy winter woollies have been giving you life the past few months, there’s no need to go cold turkey just yet. From Fendi’s wool co-ords and Prada’s chic sweaters and Chanel’s powder-pink vests, SS21’s knitted separates are the ultimate trans-seasonal hybrid.
Red Revolution
The hue of passion, adventure, energy and love, red packs a powerful punch. Be it whisper-thin gowns at Valentino or voluminous dresses at Molly Goddard, keep your make-up pared back to let your outfit do all the talking.
Abs O'Clock
Perhaps fashion’s most daunting separate, the crop top is back with a vengeance, with models’ midriffs on show everywhere from Dior to Ferretti. Not quite feeling it? Look to Emporio Armani and Nina Ricci and team with a sheer top.
Last Days Of Disco
Glitter, sequins and sparkle… oh my. Be it embellished minis at Louis Vuitton, high-shine co-ords at Paco Rabanne or Burberry’s signature bejewelled shirts, the party is well and truly back on.
Dressed-Down Denim
It’s time to say goodbye to your skinnies as denim is relaxed to the max. Distinctly '70s-inspired, channel Victoria Beckham and team with slouchy shirts for the office and by night take inspiration from Paco Rabanne with a perfectly polished crop top.
Track And Field
Taking performance fabrics and fusing them with feminine lines, there is a spirit of athleticism in the air. Think oversized puffas at Fendi, stylish trackpants at Miu Miu and sporty separates at Versace, this drop of athleisurewear certainly wasn’t designed for the gym.
We Are All Patchwork
An ode to the fashion’s new sustainable movement, patchwork pieces feel wholesome and nostalgic all at once. Dior, Dolce and Marni are among the names backing the trend, championing a mish-mash style that you need to get on board with.
Dare To Bare
From Armani’s belt ‘top’ to Versace’s skin-flashing embellished straps, this summer’s statement pieces are held together by a string. Wallflowers need not apply.
