2021: The Fashion Sector’s Comeback Show
After a chaotic 2020 that saw COVID slam the doors on almost every runway, the fashion world held its breath for a brighter 2021—thanks to a growing line of vaccines and easing restrictions. But let’s keep it real: we’re not back to pre‑pandemic glitz and glamour yet. Still, we can’t help but feel grateful for each step forward.
Fashion Weeks Return… but with a Twist
The industry’s flagship shows re‑opened, but not in the way we’d imagined:
- Hybrid formats – Live screens paired with virtual prep shows so designers could showcase while staying safe.
- Global livestreams – Fans worldwide got a front‑row seat without leaving their couches.
- More inclusive: The new format opened the floor to streetwear, sustainable collections, and the freshest voices.
Other Big Wins
Besides the revamped Fashion Weeks, other missions took center stage:
- Tech‑y Takeovers – From smart fabrics to AI trend‑forecasting platforms, the industry dipped into the future.
- Sustainability Sprint – Campaigns zeroing in on eco‑friendly fabrics and circular fashion were everywhere.
- Pop‑Culture Collabs – From celebrity‑led capsule lines to gaming graphics, the runway met geek gusto.
2021’s Highlights—Emotions on the Runway
As we wrap up this year, let’s give a shout‑out to the moments that brought us:
- LOL: A runway model fell gracefully into her own haute couture—a viral candid that had us doubting the seriousness of fashion.
- SOB: A heartfelt tribute to pioneers who broke barriers—reminding us that style is also a story.
- WOW: A surprise immersive show where the audience sat at the front of a giant canvas, turning the runway into a living piece of art.
2021 might not have been the perfect runway reboot, but it was a spectacular stepping stone. Here’s to more dazzling designs, endless creativity, and a future where even the quirkiest trend can spark a laugh—on and off the catwalk.
1. The Met Gala returned
Fashion’s Grand Re‑Debut: A Glittering Night With a Twist
After a pandemic‑cut “time‑out” last year, the biggest couture gala plunged back—only this time it came with a few safety‑centric red‑carpet rules. Think: proof of vaccination, indoor mask‑on policy (with one glorious exception—when you’re swirling a cocktail or biting into a canapé).
Spotlight on the Red Carpet
Sure, you’d expect all to be about the jaw‑dropping outfits, but what really stole the show was the creative way a few stars turned their masks into couture statements.
- Grimes turned her masking game into a shimmering, Dune‑inspired accessory that practically stole the scene.
- And when Kim Kardashian rolled up in a Balenciaga look that practically covered her entire head, she took “face covering” to the next level.
Why It’s Dope
These cheek‑y (or face‑ish) fashion hacks reminded everyone that design can stay epic, even when you’re practically wearing a clown nose. When the world was hanging by a thread, the red carpet proved that glamour, humor, and a dash of mask‑power could coexist. The night was a lively reminder that creativity thrives, no matter the circumstances.
TL;DR
- Fashion gala returns—now with vaccine proof & indoor masks.
- Celebs re‑invented masks: Grimes chic & Kim’s head‑covering Balenciaga.
- Red carpet reminds us fashion can stay bold, even when it’s more than a paper-thin veil.
2. Hybrid Fashion Week
Fashion Week, Rebooted — A “Blend‑and‑Trend” Revolution
Remember when 2020 was the year that literally put a “pause” button on everything? Fashion Week was no exception. Every runway from Paris to London was suddenly snoozed, leaving designers and audiences alike in the dark.
Micro‑Virus Meets Mega‑Trend
Now we’re back—fashion shows, in person, are crawling onto halls, towers, stages. But the big houses are keeping it safe with a “phygital” approach: think Loewe’s Fall/Winter 2021 collection, which balanced the glow of the real world with a sprinkle of digital flair.
- Safety first: Stay ready for any new Covid wave.
- Future‑proof: The universe of streams and screens is destined to stay.
- Playful creativity: designers can now experiment with lighting, video, and other wow‑factors that weren’t possible in 2020.
Why the “Hybrid” is the New Lighthouse
– Sustainability win: Less travel, less waste, more “green chic.”
In other words, the pandemic didn’t exactly put a pause on fashion—
It gave us a shortcut to a future where the glitz isn’t confined to one venue. Whether you’re a fan of the tactile thrill of the drape or the slick binge‑watching of a live stream, the hybrid model lets us glimpse the biggest runway moments from the comfort of our couch.
Will it stay?
It looks like the answer is a resounding “YES.” We’ve all learned that a little messier, a little smarter, and a lot more tech‑savvy could actually be the best thing for Fashion Week. So buckle up: the style game is entering a shiny, new, unpredictable era, and it’s already on screen.
3. The world lost a number of fashion talents
Fashion’s Great Loss: A Year of Heartbreak and Style
2024 has felt a little emptier on the runway, because some of fashion’s brightest stars have slipped away. From the daring halls of luxury houses to the sparkling workshops of jewelry, a handful of legends said farewell this year.
Virgil Abloh—The Lollipop of Luxury
- Who was he? Virgil Abloh was the creative force that turned streetwear into a couture powerhouse. What made him unforgettable? He was the first black artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s menswear and the mastermind behind Off‑White.
- The headlines: Darcy whispers that his battle with cancer had been a quiet, brave struggle for more than two years while he redesigned Paris in his own style.
- So why he mattered? Space and time had to pause every time he took a runway step. He taught us that swag and silk can be best friends.
“Good‑bye, Gerv.”
When the news broke, the fashion world did a little spin shift. Rumors that his last designs would haunt the catwalk linger, and we’re still recovering. The loss is felt at Louis Vuitton, @Off‑White, and in every sneaker‑wearer’s heart.
Alber Elbaz—The Artisan Who Left a Desert
- Who was he? Former creative director of Lanvin and the visionary behind the chic, accessible AZ Factory.
- His sudden exit: As the world slowly withstood the pandemic, Alber’s life was cut short by complications from COVID‑19—a stark reminder that elegance can still meet apocalypse.
- The legacy: AZ Factory remains bustling, thanks to Richemont’s support, and the spirit of Alber is embedded in its designs.
“The runway’s a bit moody now.”
Alber’s cancelation echoed beyond the catwalk to the city’s cafés. People told one another stories of his light touch and his belief that stylish could be both fashion and freedom.
Elsa Peretti—The Jewelry Whisperer
- Who was she? A former model turned jewelry designer known for her organic‑looking masterpieces at Tiffany & Co.
- Her passing: At 80, she slipped away this March, leaving behind a treasure trove that future generations will glitter in awe.
- Her most famous pieces: The “Bélo” icon and the heart‑shaped “Compass” were more than adornments—they were emotional statements.
“She kept us dreaming.”
Elsa’s craft continues to remind us that beauty stems from the organic, that each piece holds a story, and that style is personal—and that every morning, we’re looking down at our jewelry with a subtle “remember.”
Embracing We Lost, Continuing Our Style Legacy
It’s clear that talent is treasured but impermanent. We haven’t lost fashion; we’ve lost a few of its brightest fireflies. Let’s keep alive their sweet, daring hallmarks and honor their legacy on every slice of tomorrow’s runway, every eco‑friendly sneaker, and every sparkling box with heart.
4. Iris Apfel turned 100
Iris Apfel Turns 100 and Drops a Fashion Bomb with H&M!
Picture this: the legendary Iris Apfel, the queen of oversized hats and eclectic accessories, swirls around the globe celebrating her BIG 1-0-0. But she’s not just blowing candles; she’s dropping a stellar collab with fast‑fashion giant H&M that’s set to hit shelves early next year. Who else—apart from this beauty—has mixed centennial cake with couture?
What’s in the H&M & Apfel mash‑up?
- Eclectic dresses that scream “I love bold color” while still being comfy enough to dance at your grandma’s wedding.
- Accessories galore: oversized scarves, statement earrings, and those cheeky hats you only see in movies.
- Color palette that mirrors Apfel’s fearless plates—think bright reds, electric blues, and neon yellows hustling the room.
Why it matters
Iris Apfel’s fashion credo—that you can wear anything and make it work—is now on a giant, affordable canvas. It’s not just a wardrobe; it’s a celebration of fearless style at any age. From 5,000+ images of her iconic look on, to the surprisingly purple tube of joy that goes on your nails, the collection pinches the boldest images that pop out of her wardrobe.
What to expect in prime checklist band
In short, Iris turns 100, the fashion world cheers, and you’ll be able to own a piece of her legendary style—all at an H&M price tag that feels like a sweet treat. Cheers to dancing your way into the century!
5. Bottega Veneta parted ways with Daniel Lee
Bottega Veneta’s Unexpected Shake‑Up
The big news hit the runway front‑and‑center: Daniel Lee has decided to exit the Italian luxury house in a dramatic fashion. He was a powerhouse—listening for his third year, he had already breathed new life into the brand, so the speculation was practically flying off the speakers.
What Every Fashion Fan Is Guessing
- League‑Side Reunion? Some folks think Daniel will return to Phoebe Philo, the creative mastermind he once worked alongside during his six‑year stint at Celine. The rumor sparks after LVMH’s announcement that Philo is launching her own eponymous label.
- New Vision for Bottega? While no official word has surfaced about where Daniel is headed next, the house has already named someone else to step into the role.
The New Creative Director: Matthieu Blazy
Say hello to Matthieu Blazy, the brand’s own ready‑to‑wear design director. He’s a seasoned stylist who previously stitched up styles with Raf Simons and has a history with Philo—so, it’s like the twist ending you never saw coming. Blazy will take the creative wheel now and is slated to unveil his first collection for Bottega Veneta early next year.
What This Means for Fans
While it’s a bit of a heart‑breaker for those wanting to see Daniel’s signature airy silhouettes again, the fresh pair of eyes will keep the house spinning. Stay tuned—stylists are already buzz‑wrapping their sketchbooks, and the runway in 2025 is going to be a wild ride.
6. Zendaya made waves
A Fashion Icon Is Officially In the House: Zendaya Wins CFDA Fashion Icon Award
Who could have guessed that it wouldn’t be long before Zendaya was crowned a bona‑fide style icon? Turns out the rose‑bud of Hollywood just sealed the deal by snagging the prestigious Fashion Icon Award from the CFDA Fashion Awards last November.
The Record‑Breaking Crown
- Youngest winner ever – at just 25, she outpaced the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, and Beyoncé.
- Her eye‑catching moments on the red carpet have left critics and fans buzzing, with styling mastermind Law Roach pulling off multiple standout looks.
Three Memorable Moments That Set Her Apart
- “Wet” Nude Dune Premiere – a daring, almost translucent aesthetic that made jaws drop during the film’s debut.
- The Two‑Piece Bandeau CFDA Award Ensemble – a fire‑hot, sectional hack that turned the awards ceremony into her personal runway.
- Valentino Spider‑Web Gown at Spider‑Man: No Way Home – a spectacular, architectural statement that matched the cinematic epic she headlines.
It’s clear that Zendaya’s win isn’t a fluke. The 25‑year‑old has repeatedly turned every gala into a visual party, and now the CFDA has officially opened a new chapter in her design‑inspired career. Fans can’t wait to see where her next style adventure takes her!
7. Squid Game made Vans and tracksuits hot commodities
Squid Game: The Craze that Turned Vans Into a Wardrobe Wonder
If you’re still living under a rock, you probably missed the cultural juggernaut that bombarded screens worldwide: Squid Game. This Korean drama didn’t just land on Netflix’s Most‑Watched list—it blew the entire internet’s mind and sparked some seriously wild trends.
1⃣ Dalgona “Fun‑Shaped” Candy Turns Snack Time Into a Meme
The show’s signature game—where contestants lick and break a glass‑like candy—quickly became a meme goldmine. Followers scrambled to whip up dalgona at home, turning backyard kitchens into impromptu candy laboratories.
2⃣ White Slip‑On Vans: The Unexpected Superstar
- Sales Surge: Sellers reported a staggering 7,800 % increase in white Vans sales around Halloween.
- Why? Fans on costume hunts wanted to mimic the polished, uniform look of Squid Game’s main characters.
- Result: The classic Vans knee‑high slip‑ons turned from everyday sneakers into a must‑have prop for Halloween parties.
3⃣ 1970s‑Inspired Tracksuits: Nostalgia in Full Swing
We’re talking about that chic, oversized, neon‑lit tracksuit vibe that’s all retro‑90s meets now. Viewers saw the show’s spectrum of “school uniform” flair, and suddenly every thrift store was a treasure trove of vintage 80s and 90s gear.
Bottom Line
Squid Game may have started as a thriller, but its ripple effect turned snack bars into candy factories, sneaker shelves into frenzy zones, and momentary 80s nostalgia into a fashion statement. So next time someone asks if you’re into quirky costume trends, just remember the power of a show—plus, a perfectly white pair of Vans.
8. The rise of fashion NFTs
Who Knew Couture Was So Digital‑Friendly?
It’s the NFT boom, but the ones that actually matter are the high‑end brands that have jumped on the blockchain bandwagon. A quick glance at the scene and you’ll see that these digital drops are not just flashy; they’re selling for millions of dollars.
Gucci Goes 😎
First up, Gucci rolled out a short film to celebrate its Aria collection and a centennial celebration. Think of it as a fancy teaser trailer that doubles as a collectible. If you jumped on that wave, you’d get a piece of the brand’s creative soul, all wrapped in NFT form.
Burberry and Louis Vuitton Dive into Games
- Burberry dropped a custom shark character into Blankos Block Party, the multiplayer online game everyone’s jealous about. You can actually buy the shark right in the game.
- Louis Vuitton took a different route: they made a mobile game called Louis the Game. Players follow the brand mascot, Vivienne, on a Paris tour, earning 30 free NFTs along the way. A little treasure hunt, sparkling with luxury.
All in all, the fashion house game‑in‑hand approach shows that if a brand can make a splash—literally or figuratively—there’s a good chance you’ll pay top dollar for a taste of it.
9. Fendace happened
When Italian Luxury Brands Flip the Script
Who would have thought that Fendi and Versace would trade places like shoes at a shoe‑store? At Milan Fashion Week, the unexpected Fendace showcase broke all the rules of classic collaborations. Instead of a hand‑shake over a joint capsule, the two powerhouses staged a full role‑reversal.
What Went Down?
- Fendi’s Kim Jones and Silvia Venturini put on 25 a‑line outfits for Versace.
- Vice versa, Donatella Versace crafted the lookbook for Fendi.
- They called it a partnership—no fancy “collab” tag, just plain old swapping.
Why It Was Such a Hit
Imagine walking into a showroom where the Versace logo has been sprinkled with the iconic Fendi fur motif—and vice versa. It was as if every runway look shouted, “We’re both fabulous, but let’s mix it up!” The result? A show that felt like a spontaneous Italian party, with the elegant swagger of both houses, and the unique fun of seeing two giants step into each other’s shoes.
Key Takeaways
- Every major designer has his own vibe, but when you combine them, it’s like a dazzling fireworks display.
- Even the most lavish brands can keep it light-hearted by swapping creative duties.
- Custom names like “Fendace” show that a little clever wordplay can spark curiosity.
In the end, Fendi and Versace proved that fashion is all about audacity, creativity, and a pinch of Italian charm. Who would have guessed that a partnership could feel so playful and yet stay gloriously high‑fashion?
10. Gucci & Balenciaga created The Hacker Project
Gucci Meets Balenciaga: The Hacker Project
The Pair That Made Headlines
When Alessandro Michele from Gucci and Demna Gvasalia from Balenciaga decided to cling together, fashion gossipers were instantly chewing over clever mash‑ups like Gucciaga and Balucci. Thankfully, nobody clinched “officially” on those snazzy nicknames.
Introducing: The Hacker Project
Forget the brand‑y labels—they called this grand experiment The Hacker Project. Think of it as a “rule‑breaking hacking lab” where each creative director would sneak bits of the other’s DNA into his own runway.
All About the Logo Mash‑up
- Mona‑mograms and trademark logos became the star of the show.
- They paired those iconic symbols in wild, mind‑blowing ways that pushed boundaries.
- The outcome? Accessories and garments that challenged every fashion convention.
The Result: A Shockingly Fun Collaboration
What you’ll see in the collections is a playful collision of styles—think Gucci’s flair blended with Balenciaga’s edge, all wrapped up in a “hacker” vibe that feels both rebellious and ridiculously clever.
Viral, unforgettable, and a visual tour de force that everyone wants to see—this one’s definitely worth a look.
First published in Harper’s Bazaar Singapore.
