With the COVID-19 pandemic still drastically affecting our everyday lives, as Fashion Month kicked off last week with New York Fashion Week’s Spring/Summer 2021 collection showings, it looked a little different that what we’re used to. Gone are the days of runway shows, never-ending schedules and streets filled with stylish looks headed straight to our inspiration boards. But while it may look different, the collection presentations shown this year were still filled with must-have accessories, emerging trends and star-studded sightings (albeit, virtually).
Below, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite accessory trends and looks from the shows of New York Fashion Week.
Jason Wu
It was all about the beach for Jason Wu’s spring 2021 collection, and the theme of summer escapism couldn’t have come at a better time. Models walked through a trail of palm trees adorned in colourful jewellery, big pearl and seashell chokers and fittingly, chunky sandals with quirky and fun embellishments.
Rodarte
Deciding to skip the runway this season, Rodarte chose instead to shoot its collection in Southern California – a nod to the designers’ hometown. Like what we’ve come to love about the fashion house, looks were period-esque inspired with modern floral finishings and kitschy elements effortlessly weaved in. Accessory standouts include the collection of lace and pearl-embellished gloves.
Tom Ford
Like many designers, Tom Ford began working on his spring/summer collection in the midst of the pandemic lockdown, when even he admits getting dressed up seem “like a frivolity.” Looking for a way to escape, Ford created a vibrant, ’70s inspired collection with the likes of Pat Cleveland and Donna Jordan in mind. From statement-making tinted glasses to neon bags, Ford says of the looks: “The global zeitgeist always affects fashion and for me this longing for a hopeful spring translates into somewhat classic relaxed clothes but clothes that make me smile.”
Anna Sui
It was all about chunky sandals and whimsical bucket hats for Anna Sui’s spring/summer 2021 showing, which also featured crochet accessories mixed with matching face masks and socks. As Sui says, the collection is about “comfort, security, the smells of delectable meals and desserts being made with care, the space to think about what is happening in the world and the people I love.”
Christian Siriano
In a season that was flooded with virtual showings, Christian Siriano chose to host an in-person runway held in Westport, Connecticut, that was nothing short on dramatic ballgowns paired with bikini tops and ’80s-inspired accessories. He paired all of the looks with SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker heels and the season’s most important accessory – face masks – as well as many featuring one important message: “Vote”. Many were matched with accompanying wide-brimmed hats to boot.
Vivienne Westwood
With the new mission to only show one collection a year, Vivienne Westwood showcased their spring/summer 2021 collection in a short film shot by Louis Simonon. It featured a series of models, artists and activists including Kai-Isaiah Jamal, Delilah and Ursula Holliday and Isamaya Ffrench, all depicting Westwood’s distinctive punk aesthetic with face masks that read “TRUE PUNK.” Accessories include platform heels in deep red, matching heart shaped bags and layered gold jewellery.
Zimmermann
While originally meant to show in NYFW, designers Nicky and Simone Zimmermann decided to bring their brand home to Australia for the first time in eight years. Inspired by the artworks of Ellis Rowan, the local label was granted permission by the National Library of Australia to select ten of the iconic works to bring to life in various prints within the collection. “I came across a book called The Flower Hunter which had works from a trailblazing Australian artist, naturalist and explorer from the turn of the last century, Ellis Rowan,” says Nicky Zimmermann. “It really resonated with me – it was emotive art and very Australian – I recognised the plants and birds and I loved the way she painted with such a feminine hand.” Accessories included wide-brimmed hats, statement white leather belts with gold detailings and two-toned bags in signature brown leathers.
Bronx And Banco
As one of the few designers who chose to present a live collection showing, Natalie De Banco delivered slinky silhouette’s in breakout colours for spring – from sky blue to butter yellow. The collection – called Retreat – also put its stunning jewellery on display, featuring gold statement bangles and strappy sandals.
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