The best of New York Fashion Week spring/summer 2021

The spring/summer 2021 ready-t0-wear season is officially underway, kicking off in New York City to much quieter fanfare than usual as a result of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Although a number of brands have chosen not to show a collection, many well-known names are going ahead with a presentation of some sorts, whether that is a catwalk show to a small or no audience, individual appointments, intimate presentations or a full virtual experience.

Here’s just a few of my favourites feom the runway/virtual shows New York SS2021

Khaite

Khaite is fast becoming one of the most exciting labels in fashion right now (thanks in no small part to that viral Katie Holmes moment) – and designer Catherine Holstein is keeping things interesting, even during a global pandemic. In lieu of a fashion show, the brand sent out 100 lookbooks to press (where it revealed the dark and edgy, yet comfortable SS21 collection) and brought augmented reality into their homes. Embracing this new technology, recipients were able to view 3D renderings of some of Khaite's new shoes right there in their homes. The label also created a moody video featuring Alek Wek, Irina Shayk and Abby Champion, which you can view in full here.

Self-Portrait

"For the time being, this mindset is all about putting on clothes and instantly feeling put together—even if she is staying in," designer Han Chong said of Self-Portrait's uplifting spring/summer 2021 collection, which featured plenty of colour and much of the label's trademark lace. Comfort, versatility and accessibility were at the forefront of the designs, giving women a chance to wear these pieces everywhere from their living rooms to evenings out. And for the first time, Self-Portrait also used a majority of sustainably-sourced materials for the collection, including recycled cotton and recycled yarn, giving new life to old fabric.

Tom Ford

"The last thing I want to see is serious clothes,” Tom Ford wrote in his press release for his namesake brand's SS21 collection. “I think we need an escape. I think we want to smile. I know what’s going on in our world right now doesn’t make us want to smile. So that’s what I’ve done: hopeful clothes that make you smile."

How did he make us smile? With bold floral printed two-pieces, a pattern clash, colourful accessories and an incredibly joyful campaign. While it might not have been the A-list-fronted fashion show we are used to seeing from the designer, Ford certainly succeeded in injecting a bit of happiness and excitement into fashion again. Scroll through to see highlights of the collection.

Rodarte

Always one of the highlights of New York Fashion Week, Rodarte managed to make a statement even without a catwalk show, presenting a lookbook of images shot in the Californian hills. The clothes were just as striking as ever – tulle gowns, printed two-pieces, floral frocks – all worn with beautiful flowers or floral wreaths, which gave the brand's signature magical feel.