In a midst of a pandemic, the Spring/Summer 2021 Milan Fashion Week presented bright designs that evoke optimism. Photo composite (from left): Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Max Mara
Despite Covid-19 restrictions, Milan Fashion Week proved that the show must, and will always, go on. And it wasn't all doom and gloom too. Designers showcased collections that remind of happier days to come (or, of the past).
Many labels sent out clothes walking the line of themes like "renewal","escapism" and "hope". Optimism was big on the Milan runways for Spring/Summer 2021.
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Although, it saw scores of influencers and buyers nursing bruised egos. The reduced number of seats for physicals shows meant organisers had to be really selective when sending out invites.
Face masks were mandated for guests, as well. Selfies in front of the runway for social media, thus became something less glamorous compared to past years.
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"In this year marked by the Covid-19 epidemic, fashion has demonstrated, despite the difficulties that lie ahead, a great strength and sense of unity," said Italian fashion chamber's head Carlo Capasa.
And indeed, the industry delivered. From Dolce & Gabbana to Max Mara, Versace, Fendi and Etro, the labels reminded everyone that happier days will come again.
In a world gripped by a pandemic, Milan Fashion Week showed a rare glimpse of sunshine – that the "new normal" isn't bleak and dreary.
Check out some of the highlights in the gallery below.
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Dolce & Gabbana showed that fashion is still bright and beautiful – or at least, it will be in the future. The vivid collection came with the theme #DGSicilianPatchwork, inspired by various cultures of the island in Italy.
Photo: Dolce & Gabbana
In a time of uncertainty and change, Fendi looked to familiarity. The designs celebrated the finely embroidered household linen owned by Silvia Venturini Fendi's family. Past models, collections and concepts were brought out as stories told anew.
Photo: AFP
Versace's live-streamed runway show brought to life the imagined ruins of Atlantis, evoking an upbeat soul. “I wanted to create something disruptive, something that could be in tune with what has changed inside all of us. To me that meant dreaming of a new world, " Donatella Versace said.
Photo: Versace
Etro's collection was all about Italy. Inspired by the designer's past travels to Ischia, Capri, Naples and Positano, it looked back to better times. “It started during lockdown. Like everyone else I was at home, cleaning, " Veronica Etro commented.
Photo: Reuters
Max Mara thought not of seaside pleasures but summer in Italy's art cities and the Renaissance. Renewal was the key message. "And now I’m thinking about the women who are going to be striding out into this world to make it better than it was before, ” creative director Ian Griffiths commented.
Photo: Max Mara
