The couture shows have just been unveiled a couple weeks ago. While the usual big catwalks and highly anticipated shows had to be shutdown due to the current global pandemic, most fashion houses still kept to their usual showing schedule (except Saint Laurent, who earlier this year announced they would not follow their pre-set schedule and instead will follow their own [see below for statement from their Instagram account]) and released their collections in various ways.
While some fashion houses like Maison Margiela and Dior made documentary-esque projects to show off not only their collection but the people who help make it. (Because it IS Couture and EVERYTHING is handmade, so I was actually happy that the workers of the ateliers had the spotlight.) Other houses had a sole model, wear all the pieces and be photographed like Giambattista Valli. And some houses didn’t even make any pieces and just had sketches like Schiaparelli and Ralph and Russo. Nevertheless the fantasy and wonder where there.
I think that fashion is a great way of escapism. Retail therapy is already a thing, add on to it the joy and creativity that clothes can bring; and you have the perfect concoction, to try and help relieve and forget the stress that could have been brought on by these times. Which has been hard to literally everyone, whether they want to admit it or not.
These collections not only show high quality garments. They show that when times get tough you do not have to succumb to the negativity and you can try and look towards the future. Also the sense of dreaminess and fantasy is present which furthermore help the idea of trying to be happy.
While looking at the collections I noticed a couple of trends. While these are couture pieces and starting pieces cost over $10,000; you can probably find a dupe? (Don’t think you can find a dupe for a couture Valentino hat) or something similar that you can fit into your wardrobe to have a couture inspired look on a budget.
Mad Hatter
I’m not surprised that hats are coming back in style. Since the pandemic, face masks are practically mandatory (which is AWESOME! Protect yourself and others!) this has made people become creative in ways to express themselves. While before someone might have expressed themselves with a bold lip, this cannot really be done anymore because no one will see it. I see hats or headpieces; as another way to express yourself and your style.
You can keep it as simple as a thin veil on a headband or go all the way and wear an over the top Valentino hat that has floor length feathers cascading down the back.(Have I mentioned I LOVE the Valentino Couture hats!! Pierpaolo you mad genius !!) You can make the piece a statement and have it the center of attention or just as any other accessory, it’s really up to how you’re feeling.
Towering Tiers
This trend was seen through almost every collection. I think the tiered skirt brings a small touch of fantasy as it radiates very soft and ethereal vibes. It also gives the garment structure and gives the more is more effect making it seem surreal; as can be seen in the white feathered gown by Valentino in the photo below on the left.
Head Turners
Now each collection did have its own flair of looks that were just IT. Whether it being barely there or being overtly there; fashion houses turned out looks that’ll make everyone do double turns. While it’ll probably be hard to recreate these at home, as some aren’t even created and just sketches (lol), you can try and probably come out with something unique !
Over the top Over Coats
This was the fall 2021 collections, so coats were a must. But these opera coats are something else. These are true statement pieces. While there are some that are in your face and loud, like the ones above by Viktor & Rolf. There are also coats that still make a statement while being softer; like the coats below by Dior and Ralph and Russo.
All in all, I think that the couture fashion community came and gave a great show for the people. They gave something to the people. Hope? Maybe. Creativity? Probably. But most importantly, to not let the times define you. Yes, we are going through a pandemic, but don’t let that get to you! You need to look to the future. While it maybe hazy, it’s there and you just have to push through! Also showing that you can be fashionable in any situation. Which was your favorite trend ? Are you gonna follow any? Let me know in comments. 🙂
J’s Journal 