Bloomin’ Marvellous: A cornucopia of spring-inspired jewelleries
As cool weather gives way to warmer climes and the seductive scent of spring begins to emerge, it’s time to turn our attention once more to that most consistently alluring of seasonal trends – floral jewellery.
Indeed, Mother Earth has long inspired the leading haute joaillerie maisons of the world, leading to the creation of some truly stunning garden-themed creations – Chopard’s decadent Red Carpet Collection 2021 choker and the Manhattan Party necklace by Bulgari, to name but two.
It would be folly, however, to assume that such flower-inspired jewellery has only recently become in vogue. Indeed, such adornments date back to many ancient civilisations, and have traditionally been worn in such elaborate ceremonies as Indian weddings. More recently, this trend has been adopted by the West, with summer brides opting for veils adorned with floral headpieces in a bohemian chic style.
Today, however, the floral fad is used not just for weddings but for every imaginable occasion, great or small. What’s more, they come in a riot of hues, shapes and sizes, making them just the perfect addition be it to subtly enhance your outfit of the day or grab attention at your chosen soiree.
No longer do statement rings solely need to grace a single finger. In fact, thanks to a spur of beautiful creativity from the world’s leading haute joaillerie houses, they can now span across the hand, ranging from between-the-finger creations that peek out between the gaps of your digits to attention-grabbing numbers that meander across multiple fingers.
Such bejewelled pieces need not be overly ostentatious, though. In fact, some designs are purposefully demure, as aptly demonstrated by Chanel’s rose gold Extrait de Camelia transformable ring or Yoko London’s elegantly minimalist diamond-and-pearl creation. At the other end of the spectrum, however, are eye-catching jewellery fronted by dazzling gemstones of every imaginable hue. Take, for instance, Dior’s Dior et Moi black opal design, whose kaleidoscopic colouring is sure to ensnare any passing gaze. Then there’s the gorgeous leaf-like Plumage ring from British designer Stephen Webster, which features a plethora of emeralds and diamonds across its three-finger span.
A true showstopper, though, is luxury jeweller Piaget’s Mediterranean Garden ring. Featuring roses adorned with some 200 brilliant-cut diamonds, the purple and pink spinels add a welcome splash of colour to the attention-grabbing two-finger design.
Also Read: Men’s jewellery is back in style – Top trends here!
The full version of this feature appears on Gafencu Magazine’s January 2022 print issue as ❝Double Digits❞ by Tenzing Thondup. Download the free app (iOS, Android) for digital editions of the magazine.
Men’s jewellery is back in style – Top trends here!
The men’s jewellery renaissance is gaining momentum. The creative sartorial pursuits of fashion sensations like Harry Styles, Timothée Chalamet (Cartier’s new friend), Joe Jonas (Chopard’s bud) are to be thanked but back home, all credit goes to the champions of Mirror boy band for fueling the rage in Hong Kong circles.
From the past few seasons, we’re seeing boys in bling on fashion runways but the Spring 2022 collection of luxury houses, from Prada, Gucci, Versace to Ferrari and others, were all gleaming with gems… Below is our edit of the most fashionable men’s jewellery trends of the year. Notice the bling and the ring are getting voluminous in size.
In the photo: Fred Force 10 Collection; Bulgari B.Zero1 ring and Cartier bracelet; Tiffany & Co. T True ring and Maker’s narrow chain necklace; Gucci yellow-gold bracelet and ring with interlocking G
Adding stylish sartorial details to the typically minimalist gold ring and necklace, fine jewellery houses such as Fred, Chautmet, Gucci and Tiffany & Co. these classy collections elegant lines and a rich characteristic to accentuate the hands and wrists.
In the photo: Dior chain necklace; Givenchy chain necklace and lock bracelet; David Yurman chain bracelet
For a flashy number, chain necklaces take on a pared back and more sophisticated appeal than its longer, oscillating iterations. Whether you’re putting together a minimalist look or a modish ensemble, chains offer the perfect accent to any outfit.
In the photo: Vintage Cartier brooch and pin; Etro brooch; Maison Margiela brooch
Extravagant brooches and pins are making a fierce comeback. Fashioned on the red carpet by the likes of Timothée Chalamet and Regé-Jean Page, among many other A-listers are owning their softer sides and turning these traditionally feminine accessories into a unique statement piece for any black tie event.
In the photo: Pearl necklace by Éliou; Afternoon at the Ritz Pearl Story-ring by JLG
The preferred jewel of kings and pop-stars alike, are back in swag for men to don on any occasion. If a chain of pearls, de rigour for men in the 16th and 17th century feels a tad extra, the contemporary male can go the Harry Styles way – wearing minimalist, finest quality solitaire pearls for a subdued layer of style.
In the photo: Solitaire pearl on a gold chain; string of pearls Paradox collection by Arao
These natural wonders are often worn by the highest in royalty and if you’re looking for a place to start shopping – Mirabel Rosar’s sustainable and ethical jewellery outlet, Arao, curates modern yet timeless, gender fluid pieces. Her latest Paradox collection introduces two awe-inspiring lines – Sinag, a stunning single Keishi pearl in a 14k gold strand, and –Sikat, a classic string of pearls are a good place to start if you’re looking to make a statement.
In the photo: John Hardy black jade ring and beaded bracelets; Northern Sky rings by JLG; Messika titanium ring and bracelet; Harry Winston cuff-links and pendant necklace
Luxury jewellers the world over are pushing out sartorial creations that oozes style, character and the essence of joie de vivre. The Northern Sky Story-ring in elongated ice blue spinel by JLG and John Hardy’s dual black jade in sterling silver ring and beaded bracelets among other standouts by Messika and Harry Winston are case in point.
Flower Power: Sparkling high-end jewellery inspired by nature
Since time immemorial, humans have been enamoured with all things floral. Embraced as symbols of everything from new life and fertility to passion and romance, their natural beauty has entranced and enchanted at every turn. Small wonder, then, that they are a constant, never-ending source of inspiration behind the timeless creations of countless high-end jewellery brands.
In fact, so strong is this floral love affair that many iconic marques have actually adopted their own flower emblems. Take, for instance, Dior and Piaget, who have both selected the rose as their blossom of choice and unveiled entire collections dedicated to the thorny blossom. Elsewhere, there’s Chanel and the camellia, Chaumet and the hydrangea, and so forth.
Featuring a startling array of colours, shapes and sizes, this nature-inspired leitmotif is flexible to the extreme. Some flower designs are subtle, demure, and perfectly suited for everyday wear. However, the other end of the spectrum accentuates precision jewellery-making at its very finest, using a smorgasbord of precious and semi-precious gemstones and skilled craftsmanship to portray all the inherent beauty of flowers in truly dazzling style.
Fall-Winter 2021 runway shows: The standout collections
The 2021 woman is a self-made queen. Far from traditional, she adapts without rules or restrictions, reinvents herself in the pandemic, rejoices in a party, runs across a room in smocking couture and sturdy shoes, dances in the femininity of frills and stuns in a tailored suit. Impressive and impeccable, she’s the fashion inspiration for several designers who showcased their autumn/winter collections virtually for second year in a row. Though laptop viewings are nowhere close to the wild thrill of live runways – the key message here is re-invention. As the runway collections adjust to mirror our times, they embrace the vibrance, warmth, drama and authenticity of the strong woman that isn’t afraid to show her skin or cover it up.
Balenciaga
Demna Gvasalia is a past master at extraordinary dress-making. Balenciaga’s artistic director has managed to branch into the pinnacle of exclusive craftsmanship – haute couture – for the first time since its founder stepped down in 1968. The silhouettes and structure of Gvasalia’s pieces are nothing short of magical. Tailoring is intentionally creased and silhouette-hiding, and the appeal is equal parts timeless and casual.
Burberry The pandemic has been a great leveller for Burberry’s creative director, Riccardo Tisci. Unlike his previous expansive collection which had something to please everyone – he presents a focussed, tighter edit in 2021 – an ode to the strength and femininity of the modern. The series of reconstructed trench coats which open the show, the cinched shimmering gold against Burberry’s iconic beige, the studded and the shredded looks are a perfect amalgamation of the Italian designers sensuality and brand’s iconic heritage.
Chanel
The opulence of Chanel’s iconic catwalks of yesteryears was amiss but the strong, wearable fall-winter collection makes up for the magic. The line – a mix of masculine cuts and feminine silhouettes – oozes joy and warmth. Muted clothes with new logo prints, pastel shades of pink, vibrant tweeds, mashups of sequins resembling paint strokes, metallic party dresses with knee-high boots made for a whimsical viewing, because what is Chanel if not exaggerated fantasy?
Dior Layers of tulles, shimmering lamé, flowy gowns washed in oceanic shades, harlequins, mermaids, debutante’s and a closed catwalk held at the magnificent Château de Versailles – the Dior collection was quite literally a fairy-tale for grown women. Creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri set out to explore the world of fantasy not as a “means of escape” but to “challenge and revisit stereotypes and archetypes”. Ethereal yet somehow suited for a walk in the park, the collection is set in a territory where craftsmanship reigns supreme, dimensions of time and space are erased, delicately woven dresses in tweed, plaid or feathered trim interspersed in dark palettes give form and contours to a modern interpretation of femininity.
Dolce & Gabbana
Dolce & Gabbana’s catwalk – replete with cyber punk-inspired models and artificial intelligence-controlled runways – is as futuristic as it gets in the world of luxury fashion. Loud and proud, the line packs quite a punch – dripping with technicolour fabrics, rainbow wigs and eye-popping accessories.
Fendi Minimalist and elegant, Designer Kim Jones takes a spot at fashion’s highest table with this collection. His latest line-up of supermodels and ball gowns in neutral palettes – beiges, browns, blacks and greys – is a tribute to timeless codes of the house and the powerful women of the Fendi dynasty. Grounded in the Roman era, the stellar casting of the catwalk sees famous faces like Kate Moss, Christy Turlington, and Amber Valletta waft around in fine, glamorous couture.
Giorgio Armani Rich in elongated, flowy, feminine silhouettes, exuding shimmering ocean hues, abstract prints and playful spiral ruffles – styles which could be worn decades before and decades later from now. That’s the timeless appeal of Armani. Comfort is paramount in 2021 and reflected in the relaxed yet elegant line-up – unstructured jackets with raglan sleeves, flat shoes and geometric design bags – all form a unifying feature of the show.
Givenchy
For its latest seasonal collection, Givenchy has embraced a riot of textures, fabrics, cuts and prints. Here, rigidly-structured coats and baggy trousers war with flowy skirts and flirtatiously see-through gowns for attention, with each design meant to be “sensual, elegant and show female empowerment.”
Gucci
The French label’s 100th anniversary show, titled Gucci x Balenciaga, was expected to be an ambitious crossover in fashion, but creative director Alessandro Michele’s vision brings the collaboration to another level in a powerful explosion of crystals, glitter, unabashed glamour and sleek tailoring.
Hermès
French designer Nadège Vanhee-Cybulski’s classic, trans-seasonal line is less about the whims of trends and more about highlighting supreme atelier skills. In keeping with tradition, the pants are straight, sharply tailored and almost androgynous, while the dresses are easy and relaxed. Chunky chains and silver studs add to the affair without overwhelming the assemblage.
Loewe A bright feast for the eyes, the Spanish fashion major unboxes creativity and flips over the traditional minimalist lines which defines Loewe. Creative director Jonathan Anderson embraces the optimism of “colour therapy” and presents a dazzling line of avant-garde cuts, eccentric zigzag shapes, technicolour splashes and playful accessories.
Louis Vuitton Nicolas Ghesquière presented his Louis Vuitton collection at the Louvre in Paris in an extraordinary journey into the past reminiscent of Golden Age. An impactful, remarkable line with graphic-print tunics, colour-blocked outerwear, sack-shaped jackets which echo the Roman era, tailoring which has sometimes been deliberately left undone, voluminous skirts with layers of gilded lamé.
Prada
There’s a space between the elegant and the practical, between the contrasts of simplicity and complexity – Prada’s current line falls somewhere in that range. Cracks of colour peak out of layered sober clothing, work wear formals get a chic uplift, the drop-shoulder coat in yellow particularly stands out and long fluffy fur coats are one for keeps
Salvatore Ferragamo
For its FW2021 line, the house of Ferragamo takes a conceptual leap into the future, courtesy of creative director Paul Andrew. Revisiting the tropes of uniforms – business, military and sportwear – the structured lines have been given a youthful flourish through dashes of shimmer and flashes of fluorescent colours.
Stella McCartney Full of energy, psychedelic patterns, dramatic silhouettes, Stella McCartney’s new collection brings the party back! The designer shuns the stay-at-home clothing, infuses her line with joy and extravaganza where colours, skin and glitter are paraded. When it comes to sustainability, the fashion house is a trailblazer – 77% of the collection is made with sustainable materials.
Valentino Creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli sets an example of true subdued decadence and a return to simplicity in this show. Staged at the famous Piccolo Theatre in Milan, the designer went for a quiet runway. Monochromatic looks interspersed with gold, sharp tailoring was uniformly reflected in the long gowns as well as the modern work wear. Piccioli’s love for the white shirt continues, he has a very 70s take on it with mid-length fittings and large collars.
Versace “I have realised that this is the future, the new way of communicating collections,” Donatella Versace remarked after the autumn winter show. The fashion house flipped the narrative for the Fall 2021 line trading the signature baroque and medusa prints for a newly reinvented Greca motif and splashed it on everything. A VIP roster of Gigi and Bella Hadid, Irina Shayk and others carry the strong collection with unrestrained Italian glamour that is a part of Versace’s DNA.
YSL Shaking the bourgeois code, hanging in glitzy imperfections of the classic structure of the 60s wardrobe with the colours of 80s, set against the backdrop of gloom, creative director Anthony Vaccarello’s jaw-dropping collection is like a surreal odyssey. He recreates the ultimate post-pandemic party line with tiny leather miniskirts and under tailoring, ultra-long boots, metallic stretch leotards with glossy chandelier earrings and chokers.
Trend Alert: Latest summer patterns for men and women
Nothing screams summer like pops of colour and floral motifs.
Vibrant and quirky patterns that are sure to catch envious stares – bold, floral, graphic and watercolour prints are a hot commodity this season, courtesy the top luxury fashion houses – Dolce & Gabbana, Christian Dior, Ralph Lauren and Gucci. Below are some of the modern prints that are chockfull of personality, every fashionista will be clinging to them…
For Her:
The sleeveless calf-length Cotton Poplin patchwork dress by Dolce & Gabbana is an ode to the bustling region of Sicily. Crafted from 100% cotton, this light and breezy attire will be perfect for any garden party or afternoon walk along the promenade. Get the top here and the skirt here.
For Him:
Taking on a more pop-culture mix, the brand’s latest collaboration with American music producer, DJ Khaled, unveils a capsule collection that fuses the energetic vibes of Miami and Sicily. The lush nature and animal print button shirt is surely one that screams summer party! Get it here.
For Her:
For a more Colombian-inspired design, Agua by Agua Bendita has put out an alluring hand-embroidered Hedera Pimienta blooms printed off-the-shoulder top with puffed sleeves and a matching maxi skirt. Made with lightweight cotton-poplin we’re pining over this beauty. Get it here.
For Him: Versace definitely nailed the summer look with its nature-inspired Tresor de la mer print silk shirt. It’s an added a touch of luxe to the average casual vibe. We’re loving this short sleeves, print button shirt crafted from 100% pure silk twill and fashioning the brand’s iconic Versacepolis design DNA. Get it here.
For Her:
Perhaps you’d like to flare up your usual business attire with a summer-vibe that best brings out your complexion? For that, Ralph Lauren’s orange floral-print Hailey silk shirt patterned with floral print all-over and features front button fastening and a pointed flat collar. Minimalists will be converted with that dose of character in one attire! Get it here.
For Him:
The Multicolor Watercolor Monogram shirt by Louis Vuitton takes on the summer shirt staple, the Hawaiian-shirt, and adds its iconic monogram pattern in a lighter watercolor painting-inspired design that’s made with 100% cotton. Get it here.
For Her: Want to make a solid first impression on a date this summer? Dior’s got you covered with its Riviera pleated short dress from the brand’s Riviera capsule collection. Featuring the iconic Toile de Jouy Reverse pattern all over its flared silhouette with flat pleats, and crafted in raspberry cotton poplin, the design is an elegant summery addition to your wardrobe. Get it here.
For Him:
For the gentleman looking to make the same impression, Valentino Men’s multi-color camouflage print Camo Logo jersey t-shirt features a crew neckline and the brand’s logo print front and centre. Get it here.
For Her:
Looking for an all-day outfit to fashion until the evening, Dolce & Gabbana’s Tubino polka-dot cherry-print halter midi dress might be just the ticket. This sleevles halter dress is rich in detail with its cherry and polka-dot pattern and mermaid silhouette and pleated hem line that falls below the knee. The form hugging dress is made of silk and spandex. Get it here.
For Him:
Dior, on the other hand, has put out a multi-colour cotton and silk jacquard collar shirt that fits like a glove. Part of a collaboration with artist Kenny Scharf, this short sleeved buttoned shirt was crafted in silk and cotton and boasts multicolor Dior and Kenny Scharf motifs all over Get it here.
Summer lipstick shades you’ll want to wear everywhere
Face masks might have given a new life to eye makeup but we think there’s nothing more celebratory than a statement lipstick. A lipstick is absolute happiness in a tube, won’t you agree?
Luxury brands are totally in-tune with our pandemic lifestyles – no wonder, the latest lipstick launches are long-stay, lightweight, moisturising and most importantly, transfer-resistant.
Intrigued? Here’s a list of the top summer lipstick shades you’ll be seeing everywhere.
1. Charlotte Tilbury K.I.S.S.I.N.G Lipstick in Coral Kiss This item won the Best of Beauty Award in 2020 for a reason. The lipstick is easy to build-up in a couple of coats and dress down with a bit of sheer lip balm. The texture is cashmere-soft and spreads like butter on the lips. The bright coral reminds us of Miranda Kerr’s red carpet looks over the years – the queen of pops has always favoured a radiant orange hue. It screams summer, party and poolside to us- not necessarily in that order!
2. Bobbi Brown Crushed Shine Jelly Stick in Honey
We all have those low-key days when we want to keep it natural yet classy – Bobbi Brown’s Crushed Shine Jelly Stick will come in handy then. Available in six popsicle-like tints – from subtle pink, purple, coral and peach – these are perfectly soft, summery shades in limited edition. The moisturising formulas are infused with our favourite hyaluronic acid, fruit oils like apricot and cherry. The jelly stick will make you shine in all your summer glory with smooth, plump and hydrated lips.
3. Dior Rouge Dior Ultra Care Lipstick in 999 Bloom
Dior lipstick is an undeniable cult classic in the lipstick world. The true-red shade has dominated the runways for more than half a century now. The brand claims they sell one Rouge Dior lipstick every three seconds in the world. While you wrap your head around that fact, their newest incarnation is a thing of ethereal beauty – bold yet classy – the vibe we’re going for this season.
4. Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey
It looks goth in the tube but glossy on application. Clinique’s Black Honey shade is not even half as burgundy-ish on the lips as it looks in the packaging. So don’t freak out. It’s quite balmy, actually – a sheer pigment that naturally darkens your lips a notch, definitely what our masks-chapped lips need this summer.
5. YSL Beauté Rouge Pur Couture Matte Lipstick We’re equally gung-ho about YSL’s gold and black, slim packaging as we are about this rich red-coral summer hue. Texture, hydration, quality and durability-wise, you get your money’s worth. The matte finish is smooth, velvety-thin and stays for over six hours without drying your lips. You can definitely feel the quality of ingredients on your lips.
What are your go-to summer lipstick shades? Drop a line in the comments below.
In Shapes: Framing your fetching looks with these fashion accessories
From captivating jewels to adorn the ears, wrist and neck by Mulberry, Dior and Loewe to a patchwork chambray square scarf by Christian Dior, check out this season’s trendiest fashion accessories that will frame your best assets…
Look 1 1. Baroque Grace pearl earrings in mother-of-pearl by Mulberry
2.Gold-finish metal, white resin pearls and multi-colour crystal earrings by Christian Dior
3. Gold-finish metal 30 Montaigne bracelet by Christian Dior
4, 6, 7. Emerald Petal earrings, pink bracelet and nude Petal necklace, all by Mulberry 5. Sphere bracelet by Loewe
8. Secret Garden squirrel necklace in gold brass by Mulberry
Look 2 1. Joia crystal-embellished silver-tone belt by Isabel Marant, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER
2. Oversized portobello bag in printed python and black silky calfskin by Mulberry
3. Balloon bag necklace tan/gold by Loewe
4 – 6. F-heel slingbacks in vicuna, yellow and optic white, all by Salvatore Ferragamo
7. Horsebit 1955 mini top handle bag by Gucci
Look 3 1. Plissé nappa leather mules by Versace
2. DiorClub V1U visor by Christian Dior
3 – 4. Airpods case and Medusa pink chain shoulder bag by Versace
5. Pink long chain shoulder bag by Tom Ford
6. Radji leather-trimmed crystal-embellished suede shoulder bag by Isabel Marant, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER
7. Air Slides slippers by Stella McCartney
Look 4 1. Shell tote bag by Loewe
2. Dior Poème laced ballerina flats by Christian Dior
3. Studded laser-cut leather boots by Shiatzy Chen
Look 5 1. Navy blue Dior patchwork chambray pavots square scarf by Christian Dior
2. FT0882 Neughman sunglasses by Tom Ford
3. Edith acetate sunglasses in Havana by Mulberry
4. DiorClun M1U sunglasses by Christian Dior
Photographer: Jack Law Videographer: Andy Wan Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma
Above and Beyond: Fashion that lets you stand on the clouds…
Nothing stands out from the crowd more than confidence, and these looks might inspire you to hop, stop and strut your way to the clouds…
Look 1 On Her:
Earrings and bracelet by Loewe; Pleather slip dress by MM6 Maison Margiela; Medium DiorDouble Bag by Christian Dior; Synthesis heeled high-top sneakers by Prada On Him: Bucket hat, long sleeve polo button shirt, denim trousers and slip-on shoes by Gucci
Look 2 On Her: Earrings by Loewe; Outer jacket by St. John; Knot detail mini dress by Magda Butrym, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER; Small DiorTravel vanity case by Christian Dior On Him:
Long sleeve polo shirt and pants with braided belt by Hermès
Look 3 On Her:
Sweatshirt by Dolce & Gabbana; Biker shorts by Calzedonia; Mid-heel gladiator boots by Gucci On Him:
Hoodie and pants by Kent Curwen; Sneakers by Hermès
Look 4 Bucket hat by Sandro; T-shirt and pants by Hermès; Sneakers by Gucci
Look 5 On Her:
Earrings by Mulberry; Dress by Sandro; Socks by Calzedonia; Sneakers by Jimmy Choo On Him:
Jacket and pants by Stella McCartney; Shoulder bag by Gucci; Shoes by Giuseppe Zanotti
Look 6 On Her:
Earrings by Mulberry; Crystal-embellished pleated jacquard mini dress by Ganni, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER; Phone pouch by Versace; Printed cotton gabardine sneakers by Prada On Him:
Long sleeve polo shirt, jacket and pants by Brunello Cucinelli; Shoes by Dolce & Gabbana
Look 7 On Her:
Earrings, polo shirt, belt, long skirt and sneakers by Christian Dior On Him: Shirt, jacket, pants and shoes by Prada
Look 8
On Her:
Pussy-bow plissé-satin mini dress by Ganni, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER; Pumps by Jimmy Choo x Marine Serre
On Him:
Button shirt and pants by Sandro; Clement sandals by Hermès
Look 9
Wrap top by Tom Ford; Pants by MM6 Maison Margiela; Bag by Rimowa; Sneakers by Hermès
Photographer: Jack Law Videographer: Andy Wan Art Direction and Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma Female model : Alex C (We Management Limited) Male model: Daniel Sung (We Management Limited) Hair and Make-up: Margaret Wong and Vincy Lee
Hot Catwalk Trends: A round-up of the best Spring / Summer 2021 looks
Despite the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the world’s leading haute couture houses have embraced the onset of spring with a smorgasbord of cuts, colours, patterns and silhouettes. To combat these turbulent times and inject some much-needed positivity and optimism, their latest sartorial statement pieces feature uplifting floral motifs, shimmering sequins, dazzling patterns and much more besides. Without further ado, let’s dive into the best of Spring / Summer 2021…
Balenciaga Fun, playful but undeniably powerful, Balenciaga’s new Spring / Summer 2021 catwalk is a far cry from the almost dystopian offerings served up by creative director Demna Gvasalia last season. Featuring bold colours and shimmering fabrics, flirty sundresses and bright monochromatic ensembles, this collection is one Gvasalia has designed to embrace optimism in the current turbulent climate.
Bottega Veneta
Bottega Veneta’s SS21 line is a celebration of the softer side of femininity. Eschewing the mix-and-match style of yesteryear, these new sartorial creations embrace the beauty of simplicity, with the emphasis firmly on exploring and enhancing the female form through the deft incorporation of a multitude of fabrics, colours and textures.
Chanel Epitomising cool Parisian chic, the Spring / Summer 2021 collection from Chanel is awash with boldly patterned, beautifully cut garments that call to mind the alluring screen sirens of ’50s and ’60s Hollywood. It’s a world where attention-grabbing thigh-high slitted dresses, rigidly-structured suits and chunky accessories all coexist in perfect harmony.
Chloé Creative director Natacha Ramsay-Levi’s newest line is, she claims, a study in how our wardrobes affect our movements. Embodying an undeniable Bohemian vibe, her creations run the gamut from wispy gowns and high-waisted pants to over-sized belts and chunky gladiator sandals. Hiding or enhancing the silhouette in equal measure, all are imbued with undeniably vibrant energy.
Dior “We are living in a different way and staying more at home within our intimacy. Our clothes have to reflect this new style of life.” So says creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri. So, Dior’s new collection blends desirability and comfort in equal measure, placing the spotlight firmly on diaphanous robes and gowns that are as seductive as they are wearable.
Dolce & Gabbana Artistic patchwork is the name of the game for Dolce & Gabbana’s latest SS21 collection. Crafted from an amalgam of materials – brocades, chiffons, georgettes – that pay tribute to the traditional handcraftsmanship skill of Italy. Each has been tempered with the brand founders’ signature audacity, with clashing patterns and hues all clamouring for attention.
Fendi In a bid to escape the realities of a Covid-19-ridden world, Fendi’s SS21 collection transports wearers to a fairytale land, one punctuated with shimmering sequins, voluminious floor-length gowns and flirtatiously sheer numbers that entrance at every turn. Interspersed between the elegant and ethereal designs is loungewear that looks no less fashionable for its comfortable cuts.
Giorgio Armani Shades of blue dominate Giorgio Armani’s latest Spring / Summer 2021 creations, with loose, flowing silhouettes a recurring motif throughout. Be it a daring deep-cut floor-length number or the casual chic of satin pant suits, these ensembles lovingly drape the female form for every occasion, while leaving just enough room to ensure maximum wearability.
Givenchy Geometric experimentation seems to be the name of the game for Givenchy’s latest seasonal offerings. From the sharp, rigidly structured shoulders of a leather jacket to diamond-shaped halter tops and cut-out skeleton trousers, these avant-garde looks are sure to appeal to any forward-thinking, futuristic-leaning fashionista…
Hermés Once again proving the impact of the ongoing pandemic on the haute couture fashion industry, the new Spring / Summer 2021 collection from Hermès has clearly pared back on any unnecessary frills, emphasising minimalist comfort above all else. There’s still an element of the outré interjected liberally throughout, as evidenced by peek-a-boo bralettes and a skin-baring netted number.
Loewe For his debut Spring / Summer season at Loewe, creative director Matthew Williams has unveiled a series of intricately crafted garments that celebrate the lightness of air. Voluminous to the extreme, his judicious use of layering – as apparent in a sheer caped gown, an hourglass-figure gown and mushrooming dresses and sleeves – add a welcome dash of playfulness to proceedings.
Louis Vuitton “My question this season was less about one theme; it was about this zone between femininity and masculinity,” says creative head Nicholas Ghesquière. And so his collection reveals a clear androgynous aesthetic, with broad, structured shoulders and baggy, high-waisted trousers apparent throughout, enhanced by an array of the brand’s iconic leather bags with a similarly gender-bending treatment.
Moschino Brimming with whimsical flourishes, Moschino’s catwalk show replaced the traditional models with fantastical marionettes this year, life-sized models that were adorned with an array of princess-like, Barbie-esque outfits. A masterclass in handcraftsmanship skills, they espouse expouse a delicate femininity that nonetheless leave a powerful impact.
Prada The debut collection to spawn from co-creative directors Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons catapults the clutch coat to new heights, with these designs – in both monochromatic hues and loud prints – proudly proclaiming the pair’s love for all things outerwear. Interspersed throughout are monogrammed shirts, cut-out sleeves and pointed V-shaped shoes in every imaginable hue.
Salvatore Ferragamo In a true celebration of the modern woman, Ferragamo explores multidimensional styles and physicalities this season. From sleeveless tops and shoulderless dresses to leather suits and onesies, it’s a collection that values flexibility above all. The colour palette here is quintessentially Ferragamo, with shots of emerald green and blood red judiciously softened by gentle pastel hues.
Valentino Following in the footsteps of the many brands who’ve streamlined their Spring / Summer collections this year, Valentino’s new designs are noticably lacking in the hyperbolic flourishes that have characterised its past look books. The focus, instead, is on easy-to-wear – though no less attractive – apparel such as sheer kaftans and blouses, minimalist minidresses and beautiful monochrome accessories.
Versace Even the briefest of glances at Versace’s SS21 collection reveals an unabashedly oceanic-inspired appeal, one that transports you to a colourful, fun beachside romp. Nowhere is this motif more apparent than in the numerous starfish accents that punctuate the gowns, jacket lapels and bralettes liberally sprinkled across the 70-odd looks in its latest line.
YSL Disco fever is back in a big way with YSL’s Spring / Summer 2021 line. Embracing a ’60s-era hippie chic, it brings back much-loved trends of that era, as seen in a fur-lined flower-power dress, bell-bottom pants and even over-sized flower earrings for good measure. “I wanted to speak to the comfort of the ’60s and to the comfort of today,” says YSL’s creative director Anthony Vaccarello of the collection.
