KICKING off what I can only describe as a Fashion Week Month unlike many have ever experienced before, New York Fashion Week began last night with Jason Wu’s spring-summer 2021 collection. Using the rooftop space of Spring Studios, a very small number of guests were invited to experience his magic in real life sat a safe distance apart from one another, whilst most of us enjoyed the show from the live-stream.
This collection was our first introduction into Wu’s more affordably priced line.
Taking inspiration from his favourite holiday location Tulum, the show transported us to the Mexico with a boardwalk inspired runway with sand and tropical decor to add to the illusion of being at the beach. In this current climate, Wu may have nailed the importance of fashion and the shows. Fashion has always been about fantasy, and Wu let us momentarily escape to the Yucatan Peninsula.
Actress, model and LGBTQIA+ activist Indya Moore opened the show in a comfortable deep orangey brown beach dress with pockets and summer sandals. Rich hues of orange, blue, red and yellow found themselves to be dominant in the collection mixing casual wear of bralette and trouser two-pieces with more formal loose-fitting tunic inspired suiting and patterned dresses.
The collection was bright and most importantly wearable. Looking back at the summer we just experienced it was not relaxed nor normal, but Wu’s SS21 collection gives hope that this time next year maybe everything will be ok.
Taking his bow between the palm trees, the designer wore a mask with the statement Distance Yourself From Hate printed on it. This is part of his new campaign in partnership with The Collective Shift and Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC) in aid of providing meals and masks to those in need in America. The masks will be on sale for $30 with all donations going straight to helping those in need.
This show was a special one. Not only was it the first show of a month long of fashion, but it provided us all with a glimmer of hope that fashion can bring both joy and support at a time of need.
by Imogen Clark