It’s often been said that fashion is like high school, and there was indeed a teen dream theme to many a fall 2021 collection. The season was defined, in part, by Y2K nostalgia, much of that driven by a new generation of designers who came of age in the 2000s. Connor Ives waxed poetic about Case-its, Chopova Lowena’s look book set featured lockers, and Philosophy’s Lorenzo Serafini (an “upperclassman” in this context) took school uniforms and prep-dom as his subject.
To start, designers gave the plaid skirt, the symbol of rebellious school girls and punks, a rethink. It was deconstructed by Meryll Rogge and upcycled at Rentrayage and Rave Review. Dior’s lineup included a primary-school-style pinafore, rep ties, and varsity letters; sports jerseys also made the grade.
Yes, there were looks for Ivy hopefuls and jocks, but fall 2021 offered the full high school experience, with other collections aimed at alt kids and stoners. Junya Watanabe and R13’s Chris Leba catered to the rock and grunge crowds, while Raf Simons referenced rave culture. Those looking for more mind-altering experiences will find them in the psychedelic swirls that mushroomed throughout the season.
Le clique, c’est chic. What’s yours?
