Following the cancellation of the 2020 A/W Seoul Fashion Week due to the COVID-19 pandemic last March, the eagerly awaited event showcasing the A/W 2021 collections recently took place, attracting a vast global audience through online platforms. This year's edition featured the participation of 43 South Korean fashion designers, including renowned brands like ul:kin, which had previously debuted at NYFW A/W 2021 in February.
As Seoul Fashion Week fades into memory, the A/W 2021 season brought forth an exceptionally diverse array of fashion highlights. For those who may have missed the action, here are the five most significant moments you should catch up on now.
The Return of the Supermodel, Lee Jong Suk
After being discharged from military service, Lee Jong Suk made a triumphant return to the spotlight, surprising fans worldwide with his unexpected appearance on the runway at Seoul Fashion Week. This marked his first public outing since completing his military duties, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event. Lee captivated audiences as he not only graced the catwalk but also had the honor of opening and closing the show for esteemed designer Go Tae Yong. Adorned in a striking ensemble that perfectly complemented his free-flowing long hair, Lee Jong Suk exuded confidence and charisma, leaving an indelible impression on the fashion world.
Upcycled Textiles
Seoul Fashion Week witnessed a groundbreaking moment as Holy Number 7, Hanacha Studio, ul:kin, KWAK HYUN JOO COLLECTION, PARTSPARTS, and RINJEON boldly incorporated sustainability and eco-friendliness into their collections. This marks a historic occasion, as it represents the largest cohort of brands to embrace these principles at Seoul Fashion Week to date.
New Locations
Thanks to the backing of the Seoul Metropolitan Government, Seoul Fashion Week (SFW) ventured into fresh venues that encapsulate the multifaceted allure of the city, injecting a renewed vitality into the event for designers and attendees alike. The runways of SFW extended across iconic locations such as the National Museum of Korea and the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA), marking an exciting departure from convention. How thrilling is that?
High Production Value
Designers exceeded expectations as they seamlessly integrated fashion with Seoul's rich history and cultural tapestry. Some embraced a vibrant post-pandemic party vibe, while others transported audiences to a serene, meditative realm. Notably, the innovative use of drones provided breathtaking aerial views, showcasing the captivating cityscape of Seoul in all its splendor.
Slouchy Styles Ruled The Streets
Despite being an on:tact event with no live audience, fashion influencers made their presence felt, adorning the streets with their impeccable street styles throughout the week-long affair. Minimalist hues and denim dominated both the runways and the pavements, with influencers opting for relaxed, slouchy styles and pairing them with knee-high boots in lieu of their usual skinny jeans.
Looking ahead, the next edition of Seoul Fashion Week is scheduled for October 2021, and organizers are optimistic about welcoming live audiences once again.