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It comes as no surprise that ‘comfort’ is the watchword for SS21. As most of us at home are learning to relax our mind, body and wardrobe, the fashion world is also seeing a resurgence of comfort clothing – including wide-leg trousers, denim, billowing dresses and simple monochrome ensembles.
Need some lookbook inspo? Take a peek below at our round-up of the most inspiring, achievable trends of the season, from some of our top brands.
Plus, many of our brands now offer a virtual shopping service during lockdown, so you can curl up on the sofa while shopping your favourite looks at outlet prices!
Social media is awash with ‘Cottagecore’ right now. This floral, pastel-tinted aesthetic romanticises rural life with all the trimmings – think ivy-clad cottages with apple orchards; wicker baskets stuffed with wildflowers and fresh herbs; and long, floaty dresses… like this stunning ivory midi dress from Ted Baker.
It might seem like the safe option, but London Fashion Week showcased just how magic monochrome can be, from bold chequerboard patterns to clean, professional pairings (you can’t go wrong with a white blouse and black pencil skirt). This cream blazer from Reiss (pictured top left) is a great place to start and would really pop with a black bralette, while UGG's classic double-bow mini boot (bottom right) is an, ahem, shoo-in for a carefree, casual vibe.
Being a waterfront location, we understand the importance of wrapping up on brisk beach walks without sacrificing style. The onus this season is on elevating casual wear with fashionable twists, which is why we adore this layered look from Belstaff, comprising a high-collar open jacket over a zip-up puffer. Comfy coastal chic at its best!
While evergreen denim is enjoying another turn in the limelight, we’re pondering how we can jazz up our favourite jeans. A good pair of gentlemen’s shoes never goes amiss, and Loake Shoemakers has plenty to offer this season for the smart-casual look, including its premium suede Rivington chukka boot (pictured bottom left) and hand-painted Locke loafer.
The theme of optimism running through SS21 collections has found its strongest foothold in print. From bright blooms to rainbows, the catwalk was swimming in mood-boosting patterns. And if going full-floral is a bit much, why not introduce it to your outfit via a stand-out accessory, like the floral Staci satchel from kate spade new york (pictured)?
Nothing says ‘spring’ (or ‘Instagram-ready’) quite like a soft, pastel palette. We’re talking sky blue, mint green, cherry-blossom pink and pale daffodil yellow, complemented by stark-white accessories. Take a look at Tommy Hilfiger’s SS21 womenswear collection for fresh inspiration, which features perfectly preppy threads for the tennis court or poolside. If you’re looking for a statement item, we adore this mint-ice-cream tote from kate spade new york!
Black and white isn’t the only way to wear monochrome fashion! Another version of the timeless trend means going all-out one colour. Mix and match different shades, fabrics and fits, but choose one colour and run with it. Dune London’s SS21 lookbook is all over this trend, with a wide variety of tones and textures featuring across a range of outfit-finishing shoes and accessories. This is one of the easiest ways to rock a totally put-together look and it’s bang on trend! Win, win.
Making environmentally conscious decisions about what you wear is a good look... and vital for safeguarding the future of our planet. The good news is that many brands are shifting the narrative from fast fashion to sustainability, making it easier than ever to go green.
We tend to wear our favourite shoes more than any other item of clothing and Loake is making sure we get as much wear out of them as possible, while boosting their environmental credentials. This season's Rivington chukka boot (pictured) features a Goodyear Welted Crepe Sole, using the most essential biodegradable elements – meaning that when the soles have had their day, they can simply return to the earth.
Levi’s, meanwhile, has launched a new line of sustainable denim made from revolutionary materials, such as cottonised hemp and responsibly harvested wood. Timberland is involved in a number of reforestation initiatives and is committed to planting a whopping 50 million trees around the world over the next five years; and BOSS is focusing on traceable materials and biodegradable leather (look for the RESPONSIBLE label to find styles made up of a minimum of 60% certified more sustainable materials).
After spending more time than usual in our homes over the past year, the turn of the season brings with it an urge to freshen up our living spaces. Replace your annual spring clean with a spring makeover in a few easy steps, with our favourite homeware trends for 2021. You’ll find that small changes can make the world of difference and will breathe new life into your over-familiar four walls!
Pictured: Le Creuset
Turn your home into your castle and fill it with colourful detailing in hues that you love. But before you go retiling the kitchen, one of the most simple and effective ways to make over your space is with well-chosen accessories. This season, we’re loving the tastebud-tingling colour palette of summer berry tart. From rambunctious redcurrant to moody blackberry tones, let nature inspire you and you can’t go wrong!
Pictured: Denby
‘Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.’ The famous quote by William Morris has guided interior design principle for centuries... though that doesn’t mean you can’t choose items that are both! Upgrade your living space with tableware that doubles as art. Glazed pottery offers unique and hypnotic finishes, reflects daylight beautifully and looks as good housing your morning espresso as your prized Pilea plant!
