Fall/winter 2021

FASHION TAKES FLIGHT AS A NEW WORLD EMERGES. THE SEASON IS A TESTAMENT TO THE POWER OF BEAUTY, BE IT IN THE FORM OF FANTASTICAL FANTASIES OR INSPIRED SARTORIAL SOLUTIONS. BY JEFFREY YAN AND JIAWA LIU

CHANEL

The long-standing tradition of extravagant Chanel shows held at the Grand Palais was interrupted for fall/winter 2021, with Virginie Viard exchanging grandeur for intimacy at the iconic nightclub Chez Castel, on Saint Germain des Pres. In line with other collections this season that served up suggestions for post-pandemic nightlife, Viard conjured the golden age of nocturnal Parisian glamour. The collection was a feast of sumptuous layers that peel away, taking the models from ski slopes to the lounge. Slouchy oversize tweed coats were caped over ruched mini dresses and playful bodysuits were overlaid with silky chiffon; midriff-baring bandeau tops peeked from beneath long, slinky coats; and quilted jumpsuits printed in the Chanel logo were worn over sheer knits, topped off with comfy beanies. Relaxed and softly tailored pieces—such as a pair of cargo pants in tweed; slouchy denims decked out in silver double Cs and worn with furry moon boots; and whimsical faux fur suits—were all about the elevation of comfort chic.