EXPLORING OFF-WHITE'S SS21 COLLECTION
The fashion industry is home to some of the most rampaging phenomena, with many brands and projects that take the retail sector by storm. The rise of contemporary trends such as street style and athleisure are among them, opening new product categories and ultimately reshaping how most established brands address the market. Streetwear has become the go-to choice for modern consumers, and within it, few other names have had the impact of Virgil Abloh and his Off-White.
Without any specific background in fashion design, Abloh has managed to not only create the "hottest brand in fashion" for several years in a row but also to head Louis Vuitton's menswear department. Quite the accomplishment for a young, black designer on the rise, especially if we consider his strong streetwear aesthetic many believed didn't fit in at the renowned luxury label. However, Abloh proved them wrong, with an accurate interpretation of contemporary streetwear that brilliantly resonates with consumers. His urban-industrial design elements have become a trademark, with arrows, stripes, and reinterpretations of Italian master's paintings becoming the best-sellers.
The easily identifiable aesthetic has earned him global recognition, making Off-White one of the most sought-out streetwear brands around. Despite that, Virgil Abloh did not get too comfortable in his creative role, a mistake many designers fell victim to in this segment. Keenly perceiving a shift in consumer's tastes and likely influenced by his experience at Louis Vuitton, he is continuously evolving Off-White into a more mature, polished vision. The first glimpse of this new direction was clear in its AW20 collection, which featured several tailored garments, refined knits, and luxurious fabrics, setting the motto for what lied ahead.
Named "What Stars are you Under," Off-White's SS21 collection further explores this tailored streetwear concept to new heights. It is also a much more outspoken exercise, with strong messages about climate change, COVID-19, and social justice - the core issues that shaped 2020. These are a core element of the collection, shaping designs and defying established concepts that serve as a metaphor for our chaotic world. Graffiti-like prints are found in tailored trousers, stripping them of their inherent formality, while western shirts are paired with black neckties. Minimalistic leather accessories also make an appearance, as does sleek leather boots and shoes, a contrast to the trademark chunky sneaker silhouettes. The first drop is now online here, and stay tuned for upcoming arrivals during the next week!
