The Vivienne Hu Spring/Summer 2021 collection perfectly captures all the best parts of spring fashion, while staying both classic and modern. The line consists of 50 pieces that channel both comfort and elegance. With clear influence from European design and New York business clothing, the line had a lot of femininity and beauty.
The collection features pastel colors to go along with the true nature of classic spring shades. With hues of light blue, pink and green, the colors perfectly resemble blooming flowers and the escape of a bleak winter. The pastels were subtle enough not to scream Easter, but are still the perfect colors for escaping a chilly winter. A few black pieces stood out in the collection in contrast to the generally light colors of the line. Although different then the other light and muted tones, black does not channel the energy of spring. However, black is a classic color and is always in style, no matter the season.
The Spring/Summer 2021 designs are all about details with fewer bold pieces focused on the fit of the clothes more than any flashy patterns. The outfits were made from light fabrics that flowed perfectly with the movements of the models. Satin and silk were used to keep the garments classic and allowed them to shimmer in the light. The dresses and pants were fluid and created movement as the models strutted down the runway.
Recently, midi skirts have taken over the fashion world. Thinking back to the 2010s, maxi skirts had the spotlight for a few years and short skirts have always been circulating the fashion world. However, skirts that meet in the middle are now everywhere. Midi skirts are perfect for spring because they keep your legs shielded on chilly days, but stay light and airy for the warm temperatures. The long skirts were often paired with a deep neckline to channel just the right amount of modesty.
Many of the shirts included puffy and long sleeves. Sometimes known as balloon sleeves, this victorian technique was very popular in this year’s fall and winter collections, so it is no surprise they will continue to be popular this spring. This type of sleeve can add a chic demeanor to even a basic outfit.
The line seems to pull inspiration from lingerie with silk and lace, but channels a level of professionalism that is ready to wear. The line includes many high necks with collars and a trendier version of a blazer. There is a clear inspiration taken from classic business fashion, but many of the looks have cut-outs or sheer pieces that make the outfits feel sexy.
The accessories were bold and stood out against the simple closet pieces. Statement earrings made out of beautiful beading drew attention upward and stood out against the more basic shirts. Bright, patterned scarves either tied in the model’s hair or around their necks added a pop of color and tied everything together. These accessories contrasted the simple clothing and made a statement in the look.
What’s a fashion-forward look without incorporating a statement bag or striking shoes. One of the looks was featured with a black, abstract shoulder bag. Although not the same, this bag closely resembles the Christian Dior Oblique Saddle Bag that has been increasingly popular on social media. The unique shape makes it a must-have especially with the popularity of shoulder bags. These mini purses have been one of the most popular types of stylish bags this year. Although shoes are rarely the showcase, the shoes in this line beautifully accentuate the colors of the clothing. Many of the shoes were functional flats or small heels with a bit of color from the outfit. Ruffles were also featured on many of the shoe straps, which is surprising because ruffles were minimal in the clothing pieces.
This line is significantly different from both the 2020 Spring/Summer collection as well as the 2019 Spring/Summer collection. In the 2019 line, the focus was on patterns and many of the clothes were bolder. Many geometric patterns were featured and the colors were much deeper. The 2020 line also contained deeper colors and included many silver and black pieces. Outerwear and heavy fabrics were much more present in the 2020 collection compared to the upcoming 2021 designs.
Hu has always been focused on making outfits both professional and stylish, which is hard to find in the world of business clothing. She originally received a degree in finance and worked in investment banking for over three years. She wanted a more creative career path and worked for a degree in fashion from Parsons School of Design. Her first collection was a spring/summer line in 2012 and she opened her first store in 2013.
“In the corporate world I see women lose their personal style for the sake of professionalism…forced to follow dress code and as a result being ‘uniform’,” said Hu on her website. “Women should never be forced to give up something so personal …My vision is to break open this forced box by bridging the gap between personality and professionalism.”
Vivienne Hu continues to show the professional world that work attire can be fashionable. Her Spring 2021 collection perfectly captures sophistication while staying graceful and sleek. The pieces in this line were functional enough to wear while still showing the designs of high fashion. The exquisite details tied each look together and made the line cohesive. This line is one to watch for this spring, especially if timeless pieces and business wear are a part of your wardrobe. Keep up with Vivienne Hu fashion on their website or Instagram.
