Winter 2021 / 2022 Trend Report

A lacy slip winking from a structured cape. A gossamer skirt paired with a velveteen bodice. Great designs embody juxtaposition. From a winter floral to a new moon, these trends bow at the altar of dichotomy, paying tribute to the tried-and-true sartorial adage.

This season’s enigmatic floral is sultry and romantic. Think surprising peonies amid a black flowing crepe, or drooping carnations on a chiffon skirt that’s fit for a goth princess: these were just two looks from the well-known optimist, designer Elie Saab, whose couture winter collection, like this trend, encourages us to find light even in darkness—or, said differently, to search for blossoms even at night.

True to her love for dramatic fashions, Lizzo put her own spin on this wintery floral in a billowing, black AZ Factory number featuring three-dimensional swirls of fabric evoking onyx- painted roses. For more of a pop-art vibe, Rebecca Dayan sported a Chanel shift and matching robe with monochromatic silhouettes of flora.

On the dance floor, dazzle in a lacy waltz dress dipped in obsidian and embellished with microprint daisies—or one simply showstopping flower planted near the hip.

Armani Privé opened its couture collection with a series of shimmering, nearly holographic slips and suit-sets in celestial shades of cobalt, midnight, and larkspur. As Vogue reported, the designer described his otherworldly collections as “halos around the body,” speaking perfectly to his looks’ femininity and mysticism, two qualities so often associated in art and poetry with the moon. The royal, starry hues of blue eventually waned, revealing frothier gowns in dewy mint and sunset peach—mimicking the cyclical promise of the moon that always shines a spotlight on the dawn.

Always the knockout, Rihanna took this trend for a whirl in an asymmetrical Oséree confection with twinkling, twilight accents. Taking a different approach, Alexandra Shipp struck gold in a creamy Dior dress and gilded belt positively emanating lunar beauty.

For the dance floor, look for ballroom dresses in angelic shades of diamond and lily, or opt for a moodier take on the trend in a starlight gown with meteor decals shooting across the bodice.

Don’t be fooled by the opening act of Zuhair Murad’s winter ensemble, which begins with a series of monochromatic gowns soaked in jewels and sparkle. While totally glam, the black-and- white looks serve as a palette cleanser. The heart and soul of the iconic designer’s collection rests in the final dozen gowns, a festival of vibrant, earthy colors from garnet and ruby to chrysolite and emerald. It’s a master tutorial on the vast, prismatic riches found in earth’s rocks and crystals.

Who needs fireworks when you can bring the sparkle? Singer Ciara proved this point in her juicy topaz mini by Dolce & Gabbana. In a similarly fiery number, Miley Cyrus embraced her inner diva with a feathery amber-and-quartz Gucci getup.

This trend translates exceptionally well into the world of ballroom dresses. Embrace the spirit of juxtaposition by mining the archives for the perfect waltz dress to complement you and your personal style, albeit peridot, sapphire, or citrine.