Spring/summer 2021 fashion trends report
Spring/summer 2021 fashion trends you can shop now
Go naked
The biggest dress trend was actually pretty small thanks to spaghetti straps, cut-outs and keyhole details. Even the more forgiving floor-sweepers were often cut from sheer fabrics to create a peekaboo effect.
From left: Fashion East by Nensi Dojaka; Gucci; Jacquemus
Denim for days
The ease of jeans is undeniable, especially when they're in a relaxed cut of super-soft washed denim, but there's a whole world for denim this season, with everything from mini- to midiskirts, dresses and jackets.
Blue denim is a bright choice for summer but don't overlook more colourful options such as tie-dye, pastel or primary shades.
From left: Chloe; Celine; Alexander McQueen
The bra is back
During last summer's most sizzling moments, many a work-from-homer will have stripped down to their underwear in a bid to beat the heat. That look might not get the green light from HR, but it's certainly gained momentum on the catwalks with all manner of crop tops, bralettes and bustiers on display. From foundation garment to statement separate, the bra is back with a bang.
From left: Altuzarra; Simone Rocha; Hermès
Layer cake
Reaching for layers has become an almost innate response to tough times from the fashion industry. This season that approach can take you in one of two directions: a second-skin base layer that can be as practical or whimsical as you like, or a tunic or dress layered over trousers that emanates a 'ready for anything' vibe.
From left: Fendi; Prada; Jil Sander
Colossal collars
Who could have predicted that the collar would become such an important focal point? The trend has been bubbling away for a little while, but thanks to the way so many of us have been reframed by Zoom it has exploded. Think frothy Regency-esque ruffles, sharp sailor points and romantic macramé and lace versions.
From left: Patou; Rokh; Ami
Disco dreams
Party season was a washout this winter, but there's still hope for the summer months, when warmer weather opens up outdoor socialising once again. Regardless of whether we'll be kitchen discoing or dancing in the sand, there's plenty of inspiration for good times ahead.
From left: Balenciaga; Valentino; Louis Vuitton
How wide can you go
A new pair of skinny pants is unlikely to be high on anyone's lust list for a while, and the fashion pack collectively heaved a sigh of relief when all manner of wide-leg trousers sashayed across the season.
From left: Bottega Veneta; Michael Kors Collection; Jason Wu
Back on track
Who hasn't succumbed to the comfort of athleisure this past year? That lifestyle change has been embraced with gusto by designers who've shown us not only that elasticated waists don't have to mean you've given up, but that with a bit of sass sweats can be a style statement in their own right.
From left: Balenciaga; No 21; Miu Miu