Everything
If the current Haute Couture and Men’s Fashion Week is anything to go by, then fashion as you would expect, has a thick skin. Makeshift runway presentations, collaborative keynote speaking conferences and innovative practices have already been witnessed as some of the world’s most respected fashion houses reveal forthcoming collections. Overnight, luxury giant Hermès joined the ranks as the latest brand to debut new season designs, inspired by Véronique Nichanian’s time in lockdown.
READ: COULD LONDON’S FIRST VIRTUAL FASHION WEEK SIGNIFY THE FUTURE OF RUNWAY?
READ: GUCCI IS GOING SEASONLESS. BUT WHAT WILL THAT LOOK LIKE?
Speaking to Vogue, the lauded menswear designer admitted much of her time in lockdown was spent binge watching theatre – a normal escape from the devastation we’ve witnessed across the globe. Inevitably it was this time that inspired the execution of Menswear Spring/Summer 2021. In years gone by, the menswear runway would be set behind a curated and high-production backdrop, for the occasion of the virtual stream, digital guests were privy to backstage.
READ: 10 BLACK DESIGNERS TO SUPPORT NOW AND ALWAYS
Seemingly pulled from the vision of Sam Mendes’ award-winning film 1917, the digital show took on the filming technique of ‘one shot’, where as the name suggests, the entire video was created in one take. The result is dynamic and engaging as we take elevators with models donned in new season threads, weave amongst stylists and production crew, and as we follow the photographer’s every move. The new-age runway was overseen by Cyril Teste, an experimental director whose Collective MxM specialise in live dramatic performance.
The collection itself was carefree and relaxed, whilst as always boasts expert tailoring and craftsmanship. Across a dreamy colour palette of soft greys, muted hues of baby and navy blue, pale sage, peppered with neon yellow. Silk collared shirts were layered with lightweight blazers and short-sleeved knitwear while collarless leather jackets provided a preppy feel to the Parisian style. Pants sat just above the waist, chinos were perfectly cropped at the ankles and straight-legged renditions grazed the floor. By way of accessories, tape belts boasting the Hermès buckle, leather bracelets and bulky pendants lend a sense of street appeal, while leather footwear in the form of chunky sandals.
