As the month of fashion shows closes with the grand finale in the French capital, if there is anything to take away this season, it is that life after lockdown is going to be anything but boring. Designers brought out all the stops to create an optimistic future in the form of escapism and futuristic styles. We saw it in Milan on Dolce & Gabbana and Prada, and now leading the way in Paris is Isabel Marant with her usual puff sleeves and prairie girl dresses refreshed with a touch of space-age futurism. Gabriela Hearst’s first show as Artistic Director at Chloé shows us the hopeful vision of the fashion industry as she brings her sustainable ethos to the French brand. Versace introduced a new monogram in retro cutting-edge silhouettes, while regional-favourite Elie Saab brought party dresses back on the scene, that we just can’t wait to get our fashionable hands on.

FUN FRINGING

From fine long fringing on dress hems seen last Fall/Winter to a tougher tassel upgrade this season — on knitted shoulders and clutch bags at Isabel Marant and oversized ponchos with bohemian boots at Chloé. Elie Saab added in his signature embellishment to his fringe frenzy on long coats and capes. A welcomed digital-friendly swish as models past our screens, bringing the shows to life on the virtual runways.

PRINTS CHARMING

Brilliantly highlighted at two of the most bohemian Parisian brands, the ’70s are back, from high waisted paisley printed pants paired with denim shirts to fall party dresses at Isabel Marant. Chloé’s iconic bourgeoisie rich fabrics take on new patchwork earthy tones and Elie Saab’s intricate embroidery has a folky twist. Versace reintroduces archival 1970s silhouettes in tonal printed monogram dressing, all portraying an easy luxury hybrid of bohemian attitude.

SHARP SHEARLING

The boho era is here to stay as it takes on our outerwear this season too. Chloé’s shearling jackets in long and cropped versions will most definitely be a hit on the upcoming street style scene, whereas Isabel Marant’s wanderlust travellers will be sporting gilet vests over iconic billowing maxi dresses come September.

ROMANTIC RUFFLES

In a season full of optimism naturally comes romanticism where ruffles make a comeback on the runways. Modern shirts with high necks and lace Victorian bibs with rough edging show an unconventional twist to the trend. The king of feminine frills Elie Saab makes tiered silhouettes shine in all-black satin.