Viktor&Rolf’s New Couture Collection Is a Royal Bash

The Autumn/Winter 2021 collection was inspired by a new generation of royals. 

Viktor&Rolf just unveiled their Autumn/Winter 2021 haute couture collection and it couldn’t be more of a royal delight. The set was inspired by the new generation of royals who are trying to show a more human side behind the monarchy, while also drawing parallels with the way fashion can also be structured like royalty.

As they put it, the world has been obsessed with both realms for ages, as “both require putting on a show, and this show must always go on, no matter what.” The collection also brings out the theme of “keeping up appearances” regardless of what may be going on backstage. 

Photo by Marijke Aerden. Courtesy of Viktor&Rolf.

But mainly, it is an homage to Fashion, with a capital “F”, an institution the designers Viktor Horsting and Rolf Snoeren have been lovingly serving for nearly 33 years. 

The duo brings their signature quirkiness with exaggerated looks that come together in three layers – a dress, a coat, and a sash –, all adorned with Swarovski crystals. The oversized accessories feature phrases like, “Don’t be a drag, just be a queen,” and “A royal pain in the ass.” 

Photo by Marijke Aerden. Courtesy of Viktor&Rolf.

Simpler silhouettes are elevated with intricate detail work, such as the sand embroidered dress with pearls and a tall crystal flower with leaves that seem to be growing from the hem. The texturized slim white dress features huge multi-colored stones, making it look like a moving jewelry collection. 

Photo by Marijke Aerden. Courtesy of Viktor&Rolf.

Other highlights are the ample A-shaped white fur dress coat with black details, featuring an oversized collar that covers the wearer’s entire neck, and the ribbon-themed white gown, which is later covered with a colorful party garland coat – a motif presented throughout the collection.

This season, Viktor&Rolf is also introducing an exclusive selection previewing their upcoming shoes and bags made in collaboration with Melissa.

Photo by Marijke Aerden. Courtesy of Viktor&Rolf.

In celebration of the collection, Viktor&Rolf will host a one-day, invitation-only exhibit at the Chapelle Expiatoire in Paris, a historical site dedicated to King Louis XVI and Queen Marie-Antoinette. The chapel was constructed on the grounds where the couple had been buried after they had been guillotined. The installation is curated by Thierry-Maxime Loriot.

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