The Spring-Summer 2021 is all about how fashion meets comfort. And what’s better than a versatile fashion statement piece, like the LBD, riding on this latest trendsetter?
With every major event or crisis, Fashion has constantly adapted its narrative. The work of designers like Coco Chanel and Cristian Dior, between the two world wars, are notable examples of new design solutions. The ongoing pandemic certainly seems to be the next trendsetter. While quarantine and work-from-home became the 2020-21 theme, this season’s fashion statement, too, took inspiration from the situation. With back to back online meetings, comfort took the prime seat. So, it’s not a surprise that fashion has swerved into relaxation mode. And being stylish can come with just as much ease when the classic Little Black Dress dons a comfy look as the Modern Black Dress.
A Little Black Dress’ Story
Going back to the 1920s, the LBD made its first appearance, all thanks to Coco Chanel. Creating a dress fit for every woman, Coco Chanel rose to fame as the pioneer of post-war dressing for women. The LBD soon became a badge of liberty and modernity for the redefined woman and started grabbing attention from the Flappers group.
The LBD popped up in the mainstream channels after Audrey Hepburn’s stunning appearance in the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The iconic image of a black dress paired with pearls in front of a Tiffany store still continues to make us all sigh… Truly, glamour at its best!
The 1990’s most popular LBD moment was perhaps Princess Diana’s ‘Revenge’ dress. Which gets equal recognition, competing with the slinky Versace ensemble on Elizabeth Hurley at the premiere of Four Weddings and a Funeral. A dress that was once known as ‘The Dress’ was photographed in almost every paper and tabloid while raising quite a few eyebrows. Held together by several oversized gold safety pins, it cemented Hurley’s career and became one of the most well-known dresses created by the Italian fashion house.
Loving The Modern Black Dress
Today the LBD has become the Modern Black Dress with plenty of roomy comfort and easy-breezy silhouettes. Runways have seen this latest rendition of the trend with increased volume and uneven hemlines strutting about in abundance. Through its many adaptations, one thing remains constant, the MBD’s sophisticated and minimalistic appeal.
We love how Peter Do adds a sprinkle of colour with a play on the length. From red layerings to Yellow boots, there was a colour play on Black that made the MBD all the more appealing.
Coperni seems to have taken the short dress route with asymmetrical, zippered necklines and curvy hemlines. Khaite, and on the other hand, went with body-hugging looks with cut-outs and a whole lotta variety in the sleeves, just the edge you need this season! Cult Gaia, too, displayed a similar love affair with strategically placed cut-outs. While Jacquemus continued his flirtations with weightless fabrics to create looks that are the embodiment of summer. Oh, how we would love to shimmy into his creations!
Geometric cuts with a hint of colour contrast were the talk at Mugler; meanwhile, Massimo Dutti added more volume to a classic silhouette with subtle gathers. Speaking of gathers, Maison Alaia dabbled with different techniques such as pleats, tucks and structured tailoring for a feminine add-on. In contrast, Brandon Maxwell took a simpler direction with minimalism and a spoonful of grace in sleek styles.
From Victoria Beckham’s classic cut-outs to AZ Factory’s exaggerated elements, the MBD was all set to throw the reign of the Little Black Dress.
Celebs Decked Up In Black
Hollywood has never shied away from a good LBD, and its modern counterpart is no different. Grabbing all the eyeballs, the ever-classy Cate Blanchett stunned us all in the glimmer-glamour version of the dress. A hit with the younger celebs, too, the MBD saw various iterations on Hailey Baldwin Bieber, Kendall Jenner and Emily Ratajkowski.
Victoria Beckham and Demi Lovato, two of our favourites, styled their contemporary chic look in full-sleeves with centre and side cut-outs, respectively.
Bollywood, too has been lovin’ the trend. While Neha Dhupia wore hers with a playfully fluid fabric, Santoshi Shetty channelled her inner goddess in a fitted halter deep neck, accessorised with sophisticated jewellery. By the way, a special shout-out to Vaani Kapoor’s lace ensemble that had the femme fatale vibe we were looking for – all decked up in Black.
The Contemporary Edge Collection
While the MBD was taking over the runways, we couldn’t help but feel inspired by this classic reinvented trend. Taking inspiration from these skewed, asymmetric outfits, we’ve created a range in gold and diamonds with geometric patterns and a tilt factor. Bringing in the calm in chaos while you’re picking up the MBD for your work-to-play mood, add on these versatile diamond pieces to your day!
Designer’s Quote
Get ready to reinvent your wardrobe failsafe this SS21! The LBD is back in a new modern avatar with cut-outs, layers & gowns that is as versatile as your day. Translating this trend, we’ve created a range in gold & diamonds with geometric motifs in askew patterns. Look dapper in diamonds this season for all your AM to PM looks!
Check out some picks from our Contemporary Edge Collection:
While you’re all set to don this reinvented classic with a femme fatale vibe or keeping it simple in a timelessly sleek gown, add a hint of gold and the bling of diamonds to it.
Explore the entire Contemporary Edge Collection here!
