Revel in Luxury: Dazzling baubles add a touch of glamour and sparkle

Look 1

Studded purse by Giorgio Armani, studded bag by Giorgio Armani, white hat by Canada Goose & brown and black sunglasses by Yves Saint Laurent

Look 2

White ribbon hair clip by Jennifer Behr, blue studded bag by Giorgio Armani, black studded bag by Giorgio Armani & black headband by Roger Vivier

Look 3

Belt by Giorgio Armani, metalic purse by Giorgio Armani, hat by Canada Goose & metalic sunglasses by Alexander McQueen

Look 4

Brown bag by Giorgio Armani, belt by Christian Dior, fringe bag by Fendi, black pumps by Marie Adam-Leenaerdt, pink sun visor by Christian Dior & green handbag by Giorgio Armani

Look 5

Floral hat by Gucci, pink handbag by Giorgio Armani & gold and brown

framed sunglasses by Yves Saint Laurent

Silver clutch by Giorgio Armani, floral scarf by Gucci & pink stelletos by Giorgio Armani

Embrace a zesty new style for summertime

How best to perfect a casual, breezy summer ensemble for the warmer days ahead? We’ve put together a selection of the hottest fashion pieces to refresh your wardrobe and create a collection of OOTDs for any, and every, occasion for the summertime. See our mastered looks below…

Look 1

On Her: Top, skirt and handbag by Versace
On Him: Jacket, button-up shirt and pants by Versace

Look 2

On Her: Dress and handbag by Giorgio Armani
On Him: Jacket, pants and shoes by Giorgio Armani

Look 3

Jacket and pants by Hugo Boss

Look 4

On Her: Top and shorts by Prada
On Him: Sweater, top, shorts and handbag by Prada

Look 5

On Her: Bralette, long skirt, handbag and thigh-high boots by Michael Kors
On Him: Vest, pants and shoes by Brunello Cucinelli

Look 6

Necklace, crop sweater, top, skirt, handbag and heels by Miu Miu

Look 7

On Her: Cutout ribbed dress by David Koma, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER; Holli embellished feather and twill tote by Rosantica, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER; Heels by Salvatore Ferragamo
On Him: Sweater by Loewe; Shorts by Prada; Handbag and shoes by Salvatore Ferragamo

Look 8

On Her: Dress and handbag by Hermès
On Him: Polo top, handbag and pants by Hermès

Look 9

On Her: Crop sweater, skirt, handbag and shoes by Valentino
On Him: Button-up shirt, sweater, pants and shoes by Valentino

(Photographer: Jack Law; Styling & Art Direction: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Jackie Chan; Female model: Lexi V (Quest Artists & Models); Male model: Kiril D (Quest Artists & Models); Hair and Make-up: Heti Tsang and Owen Ko)

Men’s Spring-Summer 2022: Relaxed masculinity runs riot

Forget about sombre cuts and monotonous colour palettes. With the onset of the Spring / Summer season, the world’s leading labels have embraced freedom and hope by presenting dazzling hues, patterns and textures. From oversized Bermuda shorts and surfer tees to tailored summer suits and bright blazers, they leave no style unexplored in sumptuous SS22 men’s collections…

Balenciaga

Under the creative direction of Demna Gvasalia, the SS22 line delves into the tradition of fashionable experimentation that characterised the clothes of house founder Cristóbal Balenciaga. Merging the worlds of streetwear and high fashion, and unbridled by industry conventions, Gvasalia reconfigures the label’s archival pieces with exaggerated silhouettes, asymmetric cuts and bold colorways for a relaxed yet undeniably dapper style.

Berluti

Seamlessly blending high fashion and beach chic, Berluti serves up a riotously colourful collection that fully embraces the joy of summer. Think relaxed denim shorts and capris, bright orange and blue Hawaiian shirts with matching shorts, and oversized beige totes. The brand’s Scritto motif – reminiscent of map calligraphy – has been enlarged and interwoven, then emblazoned across various pieces throughout this collection.

Bottega Veneta

Utilitarian uniforms and relaxed sportswear have been given an experimental finish in Bottega Veneta’s latest seasonal collection. Exploring an array of dynamic textures and fabrics, an otherwise subtle monochromatic motif has been enlivened by eye-catching metallic sheens, exaggerated lines and voluminous silhouettes that not only underscore a striking techno-chic appeal, but add a fresh effervescent flair to the assemblage.

Dolce & Gabbana

Few haute-couture labels embrace euphoric colour quite like Dolce & Gabbana – and their latest seasonal line is no exception. Inspired by Italy’s ‘luminarie’ light shows, crystal-embellished ensembles vie with a multihued gem-studded suit and crystal-anointed blazers for attention. “Light is good therapy for this moment. Now we need to see light, joy and happiness in the eyes of people,” explains Stefano Gabbana.

Ermenegildo Zegna

Relaxed and casual yet resplendent with excellent tailoring, Ermenegildo Zegna serves up comfortable garments that breathe easy through warmer climes and styles fashionable enough for any occasion. From board shorts and Hawaiian T-shirts to loafers and khaki suits, the house’s spring creations bestow fun, free, cool and chic that are as at home on the beach or in the wilderness as they are indoors.

Etro

Harkening back to the Flower Power era of the ’60s, Etro’s SS22 offerings are awash with kaleidoscopic patterns, dazzling neon hues and flowing silhouettes. The more casual pieces, which range from sheer shirts and baggy trousers to open-chested patterned vests, slouch in sharp contrast to the more upstanding formal apparel – think sharply tailored suits in fluorescent colours paired with printed, deep-cut waistcoats.

Fendi

There’s no denying that the latest men’s catwalk at Fendi was a study in juxtaposition: structured blazers paired with cropped Bermuda shorts; full-sleeved bomber jackets cropped below the chest for a midriff-baring finish; and formalwear accented with open-toed sandals. Eschewing the traditional tenets of masculine tailoring, the result is a playful experiment on new traditions that spell young and fun.

Giorgio Armani

The classic tailoring skills that have made this Italian label beloved the world over is in sharp evidence this season, albeit with a more relaxed finish. In place of the structured suits and rigid forms that typified the Giorgio Armani Autumn / Winter line, this latest collection serves up sleek silk shirts, flared trousers and subdued, monochromatic jackets that are perfect fits for the temperamental , ever-changing climes of spring.

Givenchy

Androgyny is a central theme for Givenchy’s SS22 collection, with traditionally female forms and accoutrements gracing the masculine models on its catwalk. Dominating proceedings are the plethora of colourful leggings – printed or monochromatic in a kaleidoscope of colours – that are more often favoured by women on the go. Vibrant, ripped shirts, printed hoodies and a fringed cowl round out this innovative line.

Gucci

Did someone say ‘costume party’? Embracing an atmosphere of lively experimentation, Gucci draws from an array of disparate sources for its Spring / Summer apparel. Looking for cowboy chic? You got it. Disco glam? It’s there. Fun formalwear? You bet. From magician-inspired suits to ’60s-style flared trousers and oversized sunglasses, this spirited collection spares no pattern, fabric or colour – especially if you’re looking towards more ecclectic ensembles.

Hermès

Layering is the name of the game for Hermès this season, with the French luxury maison taking a casual approach to the mix-and-match trend. Capri pants, relaxed shorts and flowing trousers are paired, in turn, with everything from more subdued tops and unbuttoned shirts to a bright yellow printed shirt and an ombré top-and-sweater set. All are comfortably casual without skimping on an iota of style.

Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton’s new SS22 collection for men is, to put it mildly, an avant-garde affair. An all-white outfit with a beret, ear muffs and baseball mitt-like gloves? Check. A bunny-eared hat, a pair of leather pleated shorts and baseball cleats? Check. An all-pink pimp-like get-up with an exaggerated top hat and puffy coat? Check and check. Outrageously wild and strikingly show-stopping, every ensemble is a talking point.

Prada

Nothing screams summer quite like short shorts, and Prada’s Spring / Summer line is positively brimming with them. Styled underneath a series of oversized shirts, patterned sweaters, open blazers and sleeveless tops, whether these pairings serve to embellish or shroud these abridged designs, its undeniably eye-catching sartorial numbers offer a teasingly delightful peek-a-boo experience for wearer and viewer alike.

Saint Laurent

Gothic glam and the outré collide in spectacular fashion at Saint Laurent this season. At the darker end of the spectrum, the all-black combo of a hat, a loose, sheer shirt, and a pair of skinny trousers takes a star turn, calling to mind a scarecrow’s silhouette. Then, at the opposite extreme, there are fluorescent suits, a rainbow-coloured jacket, and even an open-chested yellow cape-shirt paired with tight jeans and high-heeled boots.

Salvatore Ferragamo

Skin-baring styles line up to pair alongside more tempered, traditional masculine tailoring in Salvatore Ferragamo’s SS22 men’s runway collection. Staider options – collared shirts paired with flared shorts, a yellow top over black slacks – do, however, take something of a back seat to more unconventional garb, such as sheer tops, a flowing cowl-like number, and an attention-grabbing tiger-print jacket.

Valentino

Offbeat and experimental, Valentino’s SS22 offerings push the boundaries of the traditional masculine figure. In one instance, this sees a sheer, striped shirt with flared sleeves worn with both a skirt and shorts simultaneously. In another, a purple blazer and a blue buttoned shirt are paired with a maroon shorts/leggings combo. This skilled layering of disparate garments and fabrics, though somewhat disconcerting upon first viewing, settles into a comfortingly familiar refrain.

Spring-Summer 2022: Hot looks from top fashion houses

Even as we remain gripped in the throes of an ongoing pandemic, the high-fashion houses around the world have bravely marched on, presenting enchantingly elaborate new collections to herald the arrival of warmer days. A refreshing breather from the presiding gloom, these latest lines are awash with bold prints, dazzling colours and stunning silhouettes that are playful and hopeful in equal measure.

Balenciaga

In a true study of silhouettes, Balenciaga’s Demna Gvasalia juxtaposes form-fitting numbers – think skintight leotards and thigh-high leather boots – with a gamut of airy, ruffled ensembles, be it a black ballgown or a shimmering Space Age dress. Clever colour choices also enhance the visual playfulness of the collection, while beautiful beadwork and thoughtfully appointed accessories lift the overall appeal to a new level.

Bottega Veneta

Stripes, shimmering sequins and splashes of colour herald the arrival of spring at Bottega Veneta. Puffer jackets are still in evidence to ward off the last remnants of winter chill, but are outsmarted by fun, skin-baring creations in verdant green and pretty purple. Sexy and svelte yet eminently accessible, there are pieces here for every occasion, be it a sporty day out, an afternoon tea party or a fancy evening soirée.

Burberry

“Because of the way women have had to fight, there’s a lot of masculinity going on. Now, it feels like women are being sexy again,” notes Burberry Chief Creative Officer Riccardo Tisci. And in response, his SS22 collection has refocused the sartorial lens on the instinctive attraction of animal prints and playful patterns. This lighter, rawer mood also translates to an array of cut-out creations, skintight silhouettes and sheer separates that embrace sensuality at every turn.

Chanel

Undeniable joie de vivre imbues Chanel’s latest womenswear catwalk show. Much of the line embodies beach chic, with plenty of bikini bottoms, bralettes and skimpy shorts. Elsewhere, the brand’s iconic suits are also on prominent display, albeit with a summery, high-hemline twist, while sheer, breezy tops and gowns impart a flirtatious twist to the collection. Bright and fun without skimping on an iota of style, these ensembles perfectly capture the playful spirit of the season.

Dior

Gone are the airy kaftans and Bedouin-inspired turbans of yesteryear, and in their place this season are edgier, bolder garments informed by a distinct punk rock motif. Here, monochromatic tops in neon yellow, blue and orange are interspersed with boldly patterned bralettes, skirts and jackets for a powerful visual punch. Then there’s the requisite all-leather ensemble and a fluorescent pink-on-black boxer uniform embodying a distinct streetwear ambience.

Dolce & Gabbana

Women who dare to bare will love the latest offerings from Dolce & Gabbana. Featuring bold animal prints, dazzling colours and a whole host of lingerie-esque numbers, this is one collection that does not shy away from showing some skin. Oversized shoulders, shimmering sequins, lacy shirts and see-through silhouettes are also proudly on display, entrancingly enveloping the female form while revealing just enough to leave you wanting more…

Etro

Sleek club couture and ’60s hippie chic collide in spectacular fashion under the discerning eye of Womenswear Creative Director Veronica Etro this spring/summer season. Embracing a more casual vibe are flowing, open kaftans and prismatic paisley prints, contrasted by bolder numbers such as sexy thigh-slit maxi skirts and a wide array of bosom-baring, barely-there bralettes. Unapologetically brazon, flirtatiously feminine, you’re free to bare what you dare.

Fendi

Reflecting a central motif of movement, Fendi’s newest collection stands as a tribute to the multifaceted forms of the modern woman. Simple monochromatic ensembles are elevated with skin-baring cut-outs, rigidly structured lines or flowing fabrics that swish around the silhouette. Elsewhere, the brand’s more colourful creations – ranging from pale pastels to bold neon hues – add a welcome visual pop to proceedings.

Giorgio Armani

An ethereal aura permeated Giorgio Armani’s SS22 catwalk show. Sweeping see-through dresses burnished in pretty pastels call to mind ephemeral fairies, while swishy balloon trousers and cropped tops are reminiscent of Middle Eastern genies. Disrupting this otherworldly vibe, meanwhile, are more structured pieces, ranging from a rigidly constructed pink-on-white suit set to a more sombre black-and-white ensemble.

Givenchy

For his debut haute couture collection as Givenchy’s Creative Director Matthew Williams channelled a ’40s-inspired silhouette. Think tucked-in waistlines, sculpted shoulders, column dresses and an eruption of ruffles. A ready-to-wear collaboration with New York-based artist Josh Smith, meanwhile, yields interesting imagery, including strange balloon smiley faces gracing ripped leggings topped by an eye-popping printed shirt.

Gucci

As Gucci’s Creative Director Alessandro Michele readily admits, he once had dreams of becoming a costume designer. Hence, his latest seasonal line pays homage to the fantastical garments of Hollywood films. Running the gamut from Space Age creations – shimmering silvery fabrics made into suits or glamorous ballgowns – to sexy, sweeping dresses that exemplify effortless boudoir chic, its outré impact is undeniable.

Also Read: Spring Skincare: Ultimate tips for the best glow this season

Hermès

Pondering how women will eventually emerge in the post-pandemic world, Hermès Creative Director Nadège Vanhee-Cybulski deftly balances comfort and practicality with a subtle sensuality for her SS22 collection. Crafted with the maison’s signature attention to detail, relaxed bralette-and-drawstring trouser combos are juxtaposed with more rigidly structured dresses and coats that evoke an aura of casual elegance.

Loewe

Even the most cursory of glances reveals that geometric experimentation and interpretation are the key motifs of Loewe’s latest Spring / Summer creations. Emphasising a three-dimensional silhouette, strongly structured metallic corsets and protruding waistlines war for attention with flowering cowls and swaying shawls and gowns. The use of a riot of textures and prismatic colours heightens this overall effect for good measure.

Also Read: Style File: Spring 2022 colours you will be seeing everywhere!

Louis Vuitton

Designed to be ‘le grand bal of time’, Louis Vuitton delves into the past and pays tribute to the evolving nature of fashion across time in its SS22 line-up. From 19th-century-inspired, elaborately embellished hip-girded gowns to the sexy, sequined dress that recalls the Roaring Twenties to oversized blazers and cropped baggy shorts of ’90s streetwear chic, it’s a magical journey through the sartorial styles of yesteryear.

Saint Laurent

Svelte and sophisticated for the spring and summer seasons, Saint Laurent embraces the warmer weather with an array of sexy styles. Drawing attention firmly to the chest, peek-a-boo bralettes and bosom-baring numbers dominate. In contrast to these figure-hugging creations are rigid shoulders and formal blazers informed by the tenets of masculine tailoring, and crafted with the boldly feminine, confident modern woman in mind.

Salvatore Ferragamo

Transporting audiences to a remote desertscape, Design Director Guillaume Meilland’s debut womenswear collection for Salvatore Ferragamo is rife with sleek turbans, flowing fabrics and voluminous silhouettes. Featuring a subtle palette of white, brown, black and beige, this muted line focuses all attention on the superb detailing of the garments on display, be it navel-baring fabric twists or fluttering fringes on pencil skirts.

Also Read: Selling the High Fashion Dream: Mike Ruan of S.T Boutique

Stella McCartney

Embracing spring in all its blooming glory, Stella McCartney’s newest offerings are a joyous celebration of fresh colours. From a neon blue leotard paired with an olive trench to a ruffled lime jumpsuit with geometric prints, outré is truly the name of the game. Elevating proceedings further is a treasure trove of textural fabrics – shiny sequins, green mesh, bold ruffles – that provides a deft showcase of McCartney’s designer know-how.

Valentino

Instead of a singular theme, Valentino’s Pierpaolo Piccioli focuses on ‘making a shift, embracing a new generation, a new world’ this season. So, his creations are as broad as can be imaginable for a single collection. Sexy fluorescent mini-dresses embody nightclub chic, while bralette/skirt combos serve as perfect poolside pieces. Continuing this disparate motif, casual cowls and denim separates rub shoulders with ethereal, flowing gowns. In short, there’s something for every fashionista…

Also Read: Top at-home speakers for an elevated cinematic experience

Style File: Spring 2022 colours you will be seeing everywhere!

Taking a peek at the hottest Spring 2022 stylings. from striking blues to not so mellow yellow, these are the Spring 2022 colours you will be seeing everywhere! See below for some colourful inspo!

Look 1

On Her: Earrings, top, trousers and boots by Giorgio Armani
On Him: Handbag, scarf, watch, jacket, pants and shoes by Hermès

Look 2

On Her: Cross-body bag, dress and tie-up ankle-strap flat sandals by Chloé

Look 3

On Her: Earrings by Roger Vivier; Crop top and skirt by Moschino; Bag by Valentino Garavani; Heels by Jimmy Choo
On Him: Jumpsuit, bag and shoes by Prada

Look 4

On Him: Sweater, pants, slippers and sunglasses by Loewe

Look 5

On Him: Jacket and pants by Versace; Shoes by Christian Louboutin
On Her: Headband, earrings, necklace, jacket, skirt, chain belt, shoulder bag and heels by Chanel

Look 6

On Her: Dress and boots by Balenciaga
On Him: Hat by Gucci; Sweater and pants by Giorgio Armani; Shoes by Salvatore Ferragamo

Look 7

On Her: Tube top, skirt, gloves, bag and heels by Gucci
On Him: Vest, jacket, button-up shirt, pants and shoes by Gucci

Look 8

On Her: Necklace by Hermès; Dress by Chloé; Heels by Jimmy Choo
On Him: Jacket, button-up shirt, shorts and shoes by Valentino

Look 9

On Her: Handbag by Christian Louboutin; One-shoulder stretch-knit dress by David Koma, courtesy of NET-A-PORTER; Heels by Loewe
On Him: Top by Versace

(Photographer: Jack Law; Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Videographer: Jackie Chan; Female model: Vika Savina (Synergy Model Management Limited); Male model: Gabriel (Synergy Model Management Limited); Hair and Make-up: Heti Tsang and Owen Ko)

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.

Shades of Grey: Your sartorial fall forecast ahead!

Contemporary with just a hint of nostalgia, minimalist yet beautiful… dive into a stunning sartorial world awash in shades of grey. From outfits by Giorgio Armani and Stella McCartney to ensembles by Valentino and Loewe, and more from the highest of fashion authorities, make sure that all eyes are on you.

Look 1
On Her
Earrings by Roger Vivier;Jacket, waist coat, pants by Ports 1961

On Him
Jacket and pants by Stella McCartney

Look 2
On Her
Dress and heels by Valentino
On Him
Turtleneck, jacket, pants and boots by Valentino

Look 3
On Her
Top, belt and skirt by Loewe
On Him
Top by Loewe

Look 4
Earrings, stole and skirt by Giorgio Armani

Look 5
On Her
Turtleneck, sweater, skirt by Stella McCartney; Handbag and knee-high boots by Prada
On Him
Top, trench coat, pants, handbag and shoes by Prada

Look 6
On Her
Maglia sweater, waist coat, pants by Giorgio Armani
Heels by Giuseppe Zanotti
On Him
Vest, pants and boots by Valentino

Look 7
On Her
Dress and boots by Hermès
On Him
Jacket, pants and shoes by Hermès

Look 8
Jacket, pants and shoes by Bottega Veneta

Look 9
On Her
Earrings, dress and heels
by Tom Ford
On Him
Jacket, pants, shoulder bag and sneakers by Balenciaga

Photographer: Jack Law
Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma
Female model: Angel (Elegance Model Management)
Male model: George N (Primo Management Ltd)
Hair and Make-up: Heti Tsang and Joenny Lau

In style for March: Caped dresses, nifty knitwears, full-hued suits, and more!

Caped dresses are a surefire means of adding a dash of the outré to pretty much any ensemble. Flexible to the extreme, aptly chosen, they can enhance and accentuate your silhouette, as these avant-garde examples clearly demonstrate.

Whether a cut-out gown from Givenchy or an artfully nipped-at-the-hip number from Fendi, for those who dare to bare, a judiciously selected cut-out dress is the ultimate in ostentatious audacity…

Putting a natty new spin on knitwear, this season’s haute heroes were, more often than not, nifty netted numbers. Alluringly see-through but firmly fashionable, these are a must-have for any fastidious fashionista’s wardrobe.

Shiny sequined gowns, studded silver coats, shimmering summer dresses… Channel your inner disco diva this season with these dazzling, dancefloor-friendly designs…

Although blacks, greys and dark blues have traditionally dominated men’s suitwear, the latest creations from the world’s leading fashion brands have added a welcome splash of colour, whether in the form of Versace’s all-pink outfit or Salvatore Ferragamo’s stylishly green guy garments.

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.

Lucky colours to wear on the first day of CNY

Start the Year of the Ox by welcoming in good luck, health and fortune with the lucky colours that match your zodiac sign. Whether you’re looking for love or a boost in your career, these auspicious colours to wear on the first day of Chinese New Year will bless you with a prosperous 2021.

Balmain Blazer; YSL blouse; Givenchy pencil skirt; Bottega Venetta chained pouch and hoop earrings; Omega Constellation watch

Year of the Rat

White = Good business
Gold = More wealth
Black = Safety
Blue = Calm emotions

Barena Venezia blazer; Berluti scritto messenger bag; Bottega Veneta belt; Giorgio Armani sweater; Prada trousers

Year of the Ox

Red = Good business
Gold = More wealth
Purple = Love
Earthy = Good health

Versace gold medusa jacket and shoes; Giorgio Armani bag; green tourmaline ring; by Ryder Diamonds; Gucci necklace; Rado golden horse automatic watch

Year of the Tiger

Forest Green = Good business
Gold = More wealth
White = Love
Black = Good health

YSL cashmere and wool jacket; Marni small leather tote; fancy yellow white earrings by Ryder Diamonds; Versace medusa necklace; ribbed trousers by Victoria Beckham

Year of the Rabbit

Blue = Good business
Gold = More wealth
Yellow = Ward off bad spirits
Orange = Love

Marni knit dress; Burberry ankle boots; Hermès silk bag; Fenty Beauty gloss bomb

Year of the Dragon

Red = Good business
Yellow = More wealth
Purple = Love
Brown = Happiness

Marni knit pullover; Joseph leather leggings; Ports bag; Chaumet link necklace; Chopard happy hearts bracelet

Year of the Snake

Red = Good business
Gold: More wealth
Orange + Red = Love
Green = Happiness

YSL runway look and silk blouse; Giorgio Armani purse; Fenty Beauty gloss bomb

Year of the Horse

Red + Purple = Good business
Pink = Love
Green = Good health

Joseph Cenda wool and and cashmere jacket; Jimmy Choo heels; Astteria yellow diamond necklace; Marni small leather tote; Fenty Beaty gloss bomb

Year of the Goat

Orange + Red = Good business
Yellow = More wealth
Bright Yellow = Love
Beige = Good health

Dior hoop earrings; Burberry sunglasses; shoes by Golden Goose; Buccellati Macri Classica diamond bracelets

Year of the Monkey

White = Good business
Gold = More wealth
Golden Brown = Good health

Canada Goose sleeveless vest; money gold cloth mask by Silkism; Omega Trésor watch; Burberry gold-plated bangle; necklace by Ryder Diamonds

Year of the Rooster

Silver = Good business
Gold = More wealth
White = Love
Yellow = Good health

Chloe FW20-21 runway look; Bottega Venetta clutch; Breguet Reine de Naples watch

Year of the Dog

Red = Good business
Light Yellow = More wealth
Wine Red = Love
Brown = Good health

Kingsmen suit jacket and pants; Louis Vuitton long necklace; Cushion diamond ring by Ryder Diamonds; Berluti cashmere scarf

Year of the Pig

Black + White = Good business
Gold = More wealth
Light blue = Love
Dark green = Good health