Most Wanted

Sartorially speaking, the past year has been defined by a mood of prudence; but, judging by the SS21 and FW21 collections, what’s coming in its wake is a celebration of fashion at its most fabulous. The riotous colors, prints and directional silhouettes we’ve seen on the runways in recent seasons have transported us to brighter days ahead in the way that only truly transcendent fashion can. Which is why the NET-A-PORTER team has been abuzz with the new pieces and styles they’ll be trying out once lockdown lifts, moving away from the same closet staples that have seen us through the pandemic in an effort to dress for a new beginning.

For junior fashion market editor Abbi Minchin, a denim and tailoring devotee, this means venturing into new territory and introducing dresses into her closet. So, when a joyous summer style by Zimmermann – one of Australia’s design luminaries – arrived on site this week, she added it straight to her basket.

“Dresses have never traditionally been a go-to for me, but given that I have worn nothing but loungewear for the past year, I’m finding myself drawn to drama and glamour this summer. This feminine Zimmermann number is the perfect dress for all occasions; cast in an uplifting orange hue and floral print, it strikes a lovely balance between subtle and statement. Style it up or down and it will work for the office, a dinner date and even the many highly anticipated weddings that will hopefully be going ahead in the not-too-distant future. Personally, I’ll be pairing mine with flat sandals, although I may throw on a pair of heels for my first big outing. No matter where you’re planning on taking this stunning piece for a spin, add some raffia accessories and a touch of gold jewelry and you’re ready to go!”

This thirst for newness extends to some of the industry’s most popular jewelry designers, too. This season, Los Angeles-based Sophie Buhai, previously known for her amorphous metals, is dabbling with a new art deco aesthetic, and her lemon-hued quartz cocktail ring is the perfect addition to any after-dark look. Elsewhere, Laura Lombardi has remastered her chunky chains into drop earrings that are at once contemporary and utterly timeless.

Discover more from this week’s What’s New.