Effortlessly chic and refined elegance with Hermes
MANILA, Philippines — The Hermès women’s fall/winter 2021 collection is characterized by clean and modern lines, sober yet rich colors, streamlined silhouettes with the occasional pop of color (greens, oranges, pinks), zippers, fringes, simple stripes, graphics and, of course, a mix of materials from suede to leather to knits and wovens.
The accessories — from bags, silk, boots to necklaces and watches — are easy, classic and versatile throughout; they don’t intend to outshine the apparel. The models — important to note — are neither too young nor too thin. The modern Hermès woman, after all, is Everywoman: She is natural, down-to-earth but razor-sharp in style. She doesn’t exert too much effort in putting her look together because her pieces are strong, chic, and versatile — luxurious in their simplicity. Her hair is naturally tousled and her makeup is clean and polished. She can take her look from morning to night as she switches hats and roles throughout the day. She can turn heads whether in New York, Paris or Shanghai, because her look is timeless.
Looking back on the show, the movements by the dancers in New York and Shanghai, along with the steady and catchy beats in the background further accentuate the fluidity of the Hermès woman. The visual appeal of the stages simply dressed in Hermès boxes shows that value can be derived without excess; that in simplicity lies sophistication and even a touch of edginess.
Just as marvelous is the men’s fall/winter collection, casually elegant pieces that blur the line between formal and informal. It was a welcome respite from the loud and exaggerated branding from many of fashion’s most revered maisons.
Taking into account this age of stressed and confined living that has redefined fashion, Véronique Nichanian combined form with function, excitement with comfort, and innovation with chic. Adding a current twist into the brand’s heritage, Nichanian showcased a bold yet harmonious hybrid of materials, colors and patterns. Clean, tailored lines and saddlery-inspired details were updated with oversized silhouettes and a modern application of trims, pockets and zippers.
Strong yet sedate colors such as cumin, wisteria, Rouge H and frosted blue layered effortlessly with the brand’s well-loved neutrals. Striking lines and patterns coexist easily with textured and smooth solids. Darker shades of apparel complement the bright colors of shoes and bags.
Through this collection, Nichanian has successfully proven that Hermès is able to readjust, realign and reinterpret their brand codes to the modern-day needs of its following, offering a wearable collection that is inventive without being outrageous, fashionable while being wearable. This is how to stay relevant in the new normal.
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Hermès is located in Greenbelt 3, Ayala Center, Makati, and is open daily.
