TOP 10 TREND HIGHLIGHTS YOU NEED THIS AW'21
The 2021 runways are flooding our hearts with romance, memories and detailed stories.
The contrast of traditional symbols of desire and beauty from the 1950s with the high-spirited colours from the ’70s and ‘80s breeds an eclectic mix of tones and silhouettes that inspires nostalgia, comfort and hope.
Ski suits, tweed coats and plenty of voluminous puffers were taking over the runways of Paris, along with hand-spun skirts, pleats, large wraps and snoods.
Dreamy bejeweled knits and Broderie Anglaise lace caught the eyes of many who are aching for a night away.
We are caught in a time where the old souls meet the new. A desire for new beginnings, but also a soul that yearns for comfort and familiarity.
Here are COCO LOUISE’S top highlights for the season.
BIG KNIT BEAUTY
Push away your tracksuits and take a dive into dramatic knits for the season. The beauty in this trend is the enjoyment of layering different textures, colours and styles to bring you ultimate comfort and warmth.
Year after year we’ve noticed a trend in oversized sweaters, and ‘oversized’ is definitely bigger and better in 2021. Notably this season, chunky scarves from Tory Burch and Gauchere’s cosy long sweaters offer the perfect pieces for throwing onto any base outfit.
Ports 1961 made a statement with their exaggerated details, especially seen in their thick cardigans which featured amplified collars and leather braided against wool. Chloé also kicked it up a notch with their long and heavy knitted dresses.
There’s nothing to dislike about big knits, so have your pick and layer them with love. Never forget to also indulge in a big warm hug.
SHOP THE STYLE.
2. COLOUR THERAPY.
If there’s any time for colour, it’s right now. Colours make the best mood boosters, and designers across the globe are bringing joy to our wardrobes with a whirlwind of swirls, large bold graphics, coloured vintage monogram, fluro knitwear and clashing prints.
These looks are taking the streets back to the ’70s, a period characterised by bold colours, voluminous silhouettes and long oversized layers.
SHOP THE STYLE.
3. PLEATED PLISSE.
Did you know that pleats were born in ancient Egypt? It was a symbol of power, and could very well be the next reimagined power symbol for women.
There is something effortlessly elegant in pleated looks— the way the garment creates gentle movements, bringing the outfit to life. The vertical pleats also elongate the silhouette, which adds to the notion of power and strength.
Think of layering your pleats for a dramatic look or dialing it back with Broderie Anglaise lace and English lady tweed coats.
Sun-ray pleats and accordion pleats have been a reoccurring sight in collars, skirts, maxi dresses and inserts, highlighting the themes of vintage romance and cabaret glamour.
SHOP THE STYLE.
4. GET WRAPPED.
Fashion Week ‘21 is telling us to wear ponchos and we aren’t complaining about it.
Ponchos and capes have seen a great resurgence this season and there are many reasons why they could be coming back. It complements any body type, it’s extremely versatile (wrap it, belt it or roll it up) and ultra-comfortable. It also maintains a feminine silhouette with its sloped shoulders and offers a more natural feel to the outfit.
Originally created to signal rank and status, it’s now perhaps adopted as a symbol of comfort and protection in these difficult times.
Pair it with anything, from roomy or flared denim to long skirts and even maxi dresses.
Quick Style Tip.
Tie in your oversized knitted scarf for extra layer.
SHOP THE STYLE.
5. KNITTED SKIRTS
The knitted skirt is your next wardrobe staple, whether it’s a hand-spun, crocheted or woollen skirt, in sheath, pencil or low slung waist maxi styles. There is simply a cut for everyone.
This style may not complement all figures, so remember to play with your proportions to help with shape and length, especially for the petite ladies. Otherwise, opt for a knitted or woollen skirt that’s above the knee, in an A-line cut or one with an asymmetrical side slit.
Be versatile with the skirt— ditch the obvious office styles and opt for an elegant woollen skirt that will add texture to your look and enhance your overall appearance.
Take the hand-spun or crochet skirts to the weekend, pair them with your poncho or a long coat to exaggerate that 70s look.
SHOP THE STYLE.
6. DISCO GLAMOUR.
The ultimate statement to look forward to this season— crystals and sparkles! Reminiscent of better times, this season’s international designers are ramping up our lockdown loungewear with lots of shine.
Tone down your sequinned tunics with denim, sweaters and bomber jackets, or dazzle it up with extra glitz. For the maximalist, embellished crystals are looking sensational on Paco Rabanne’s knitwear, paired with their sequin skirts.
Alberta Ferretti, on the other hand, plays with contrasts by pairing a warm knit above striking sequin pants.
Designers are offering sets that will allow us to mix and match and dress up or down.
SHOP THE STYLE.
7. PADDED PUFFERS & PATCHWORK.
Puffers have never been my thing, but when they come combined in appliqué details, neon colours and printed inserts as seen at Chloé & Etro, I simply cannot resist. There has been a distinctive bohemian flair across different runways (even seen in capes).
Paired with worn-in boots and additional layers, this outfit looks like home in both the countryside and city.
The padded quilted look has appeared in bags for some time now, but this season we’re spotting them in pants, ski-suits (worn on the streets), oversized coats, wrap skirts and even knee-pads at Balmain. More than just functional, they’ve seen a whole style upgrade that people have to get on.
SHOP THE STYLE.
8. PREP IT UP!
Go back to school (or the boardroom) in these playful looks that are taking over international runways (and my heart).
Blazers don’t always have to look stiff and severe. A black blazer that’s oversized can create a more relaxed feel, while pinning your lapels add personality and playfulness to your outfit.
Instead of sticking to the usual white shirts, wear one with laced ruffles for texture. You can also wear your blazers on the weekend with a mini skirt for a more youthful and preppy vibe.
SHOP THE STYLE.
9. BLACK LEATHER.
Leather is a material that’s truly stood the test of time, and for a good reason— anyone at any age could pull off wearing it.
This season updates leather with precise and intricate laser cutting, as well as scalloped edges. They’re both flirty and feminine, but also adds an air of dominance and power.
You can match leather with pleats and frills to soften the edge, or you can match it with more leather and sharp collared shirts to create a grungy or gothic look.
If you’re looking for an earthier feel, khaki and burgundy are amazing alternatives to black leather.
SHOP THE TREND.
10. OLD HOLLYWOOD.
There’s no other era that celebrates the female form than that of the 1930s-50s. This season saw a blend of understated cuts that quietly accentuated the female body and full, unabashed glamour with pearls and luxurious velvets draping onto every curve.
In this period of crop top and leggings, it’s refreshing to see sex appeal presented in former ways, whether it be highlighting your decolletage, bringing attention to your waist or exposing your back. Either way, this trend strikes the perfect balance between demure and sensual.
