Ah, fashion week. Some of the best weeks in the year, every year, even in a pandemic. There were so many questions and concerns about how the shows would be held, who would attend, what is predictable in the year of unpredictability. Both despite and inspired by the circumstances, there were so many shows and so many moments that were poignant and powerful. The influence of the pandemic was unmistakable. On one hand, there was a current of practicality, modish silhouettes and stripping back to basics. On the other hand, there was fun, and lots of it. My favourite thing about the shows? The fact that they were a prediction of the future, a beacon of light in the tunnel, a promise that we could get out on the other side (and we can look amazing whilst doing it.) Here are 12 trends and a few runway shots that will set you in good stead for the year ahead.
HEADSCARVES. Top of my list and something you will see featuring in my "5 Ways With" spreads each week I am sure! It's time to say goodbye to the bucket hat and welcome in a new and endlessly chic age of head-dressing that is surprisingly versatile. They can be sharp or romantic, thin and silky, or loose and spun from linen perfect for your holiday - whenever that may be.
COLOUR reigns supreme, and pink continues to lead the pack. I've even seen it labelled as a new neutral! The new palette is not for the fainthearted as big and bold is the only way to go. Other frontline colours? Blues, Orange, Silver. Put them all together and you cannot fail to brighten someone's day.
BRALETTES are still big news. Comfy and cosy or clean-cut and classy. This is the ultimate WFH piece, whether you're opting for cashmere or suiting up for a conference call.
TIERS, on a dress not a nation! Perhaps a little tongue-in-cheek but no less fabulous and a style for all occasions. Last year I added 3 tiered dresses to my collection: a black casual one, a pale blue polka dot one and a satin gold one. One for every day, one for summer play, and the other for a night that calls for a little luxe. I opt to pair both of the causal ones with flats as it exaggerates the silhouette giving off that Molly Goddard vibe.
NOT-SO-SKINNY JEANS. Demin gets a comfort makeover too. Bootleg and straight cut jeans were on the runway and they are numerous in the "new-in" sections to know about right now. Some of my favourites are the embellished pairs from Germanier and the patchwork striped jeans from Marques Almeida, both on sale now.
CUT IT OUT. Home workouts done you some good? Show it off my friend! Not bothered to define your abs? Flash some chest instead. Whatever and wherever you feel could do with some air! My personal favourite? The naked hip at Versace: subtle but so gorgeously sexy.
FUN. Colour has been covered, but there's more to 2021 than a hot shade of pink. Fun, and lots of it. The Molly Goddard effect, and a desire to inspire joy was fuel to the fire of so many designers. Think print, feathers, frills and flouncing. Layer them up and enjoy.
That being said, I believe there will be a reliance on BLACK ON BLACK, and dark neutrals like navy as a more sultry approach to workwear and more practical clothing, which is good news for those invested in leather.
CLEVER LAYERS, suitable for Spring and Summer, and more for the chillier months. Sheer dresses covered coloured separates, trench coats topped 3 piece suits, small tops covered big tops, big tops covered roll necks... you get the idea.
A permanent license to DRESS UP. 2020 was the year that loungewear became acceptable attire 24/7, and whilst some maintain this way for living, there is definitely a newfound desire to dress up, and actually do, even if there is no where to go.
SILKS and SATINS, two fabrics that again are perfect for dressing up or under your dressing gown. Again, look to Versace to witness the artistry that comes with such a shine, and be warned, you will be craving the ocean shortly after.
A final trend, and one that is everlasting: The realisation that FASHION IS FOR CHANGE, and there's so many ways that designers have started showing it. From making a statement with slogans and slandering stitched across chests, to upcycling old fabrics and archive pieces like at Marni, Bethany Williams and Balenciaga, to donating funds and committing themselves to a movement, environmental or social, as seen at Burberry a number of times this year. 2021 will see more innovation, more commitment, more collaboration, more more more! The time for change is now, and fashion is a place to do it.
A feast for the senses indeed.
AE x
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