The Spring 2021 Couture Shows You Need To Know

In the world of fashion, the couture shows are always special to view. The collections are a fantasy, featuring garments created by hand and finished to the highest standard. To really appreciate couture, you have to look at the details. The craftsmanship is exquisite and the runway presentations are beautiful. This season, still in the midst of a pandemic, the ateliers showcased their collections to a digital audience, offering us the dreamy escape we’re all craving right now. —Lyndi Barrett

chanel. There was a sense of celebration and joy woven throughout the Chanel couture presentation. Virginie Viard was inspired by the love and warmth of a summer wedding in the South of France. The models descended the staircase of The Grand Palais in Paris, which was decorated with fresh flower, rustic arches and single string lights. Gold chairs for the very intimate audience were dotted around the circular runway that was scattered with rose petals. The sweet sounds of Be My Baby filled the space, creating a very romantic atmosphere. The collection featured an array of bohemian-style dresses and classic Chanel silhouettes. Feathers, layers of tulle, ruffles and lace were showcased throughout the feminine range. The upbeat colour palette of pink, yellow and other candy shades was grounded in neutrals. The Chanel bride closed the show on a majestic white horse, wearing a dress with a train embroidered by Atelier Lesage. Each model donned 1920s-style black-and-white toe-cap shoes—the perfect footwear in which to dance the night away!

dior. Christian Dior was known to be very superstitious. He often consulted clairvoyants and tarot card readers. One infamously told him his brand would revolutionize the world! Maria Grazia Chiuri was inspired by the art of tarot cards, and the intricate designs featured on them. The collection pays homage to Monsieur Dior’s belief in star signs as being part of our destiny. Since the collection was presented digitally, Dior collaborated with Matteo Garrone to create a short film, Le Château du Tarot, shot at the Castello di Sammezzano in Tuscany. It features a young woman reading tarot cards in a classic Dior Bar jacket, who then takes an imagined voyage, encountering characters from the deck, all dressed in Dior couture—pieces featuring rich brocade fabrics embellished with gold threads and beaded celestial motifs. The series of evening gowns with layers of tulle in delicate shades of smoky grey and soft taupe were spectacular. Models were adorned with headpieces made of jewels, flowers and pearls, completing this Renaissance-inspired collection.

fendi. This season marked Kim Jones’ debut couture collection for Fendi. An elaborate maze of glass and botanical displays were created as the backdrop for the presentation. Many famous faces graced the runway: Kate and Lila Moss, Demi Moore, Christy Turlington and Cara Delevingne. This season was inspired by a location that is very personal to Jones: Charleston Farmhouse is a 16th-century Sussex retreat where he spent time growing up and now owns a house. The collection featured beautiful silhouettes and impeccable tailoring; each look was completed with statement accessories. Naomi Campbell closed the 19-piece range wearing a marble-print gown with a dramatic cape. Beautiful Murano glass combs adorned her hair, along with oversized chandelier earrings.