It’s no coincidence that pastels are trending this season.
After 18 months of the pandemic impacting every aspect of our lives, we’re seeking out the calming and comforting cotton candy colours to do just that – make us feel at ease.
READ MORE: 10 Autumn Winter 2021 Trends to Get to Know (and Where to Shop Them) Now
Video by Phoebe Bostock
The soothing nature of parma violet hues saw countless designers embrace the shades for SS21. Pastels were seen at Stine Goya, Max Mara, Acne, Chanel and Cecilie Bahnse in a wide variety of silhouettes, from flowing gowns, to tailored trousers.
Of course, the high street and emerging designers have celebrated pastels in their summer collections too, with Livia Tang, Foam of the Days, Ana Ljubinkovic and Fiona O’Neill utilising the ice cream shades in heavily embellished accessories, feminine blouses covered in bows and extravagant tulle gowns.
This sunny trend inspired our new editorial, Power Pastels. Shot by photographer Olivia Bossert at a studio in London, it celebrates a new era of fashion as our lives return to some semblance of normality, in which self-expression and extravagance are encouraged.
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Model Amrita Palahey at Elite
Photography by Olivia Bossert
Hair & Make Up by Emily Wouters using Biossance, Kjaer Weis and ĀTHR Beauty
Styling by Mariam Taiwo Sonekan

Blouse, Ana Ljubinkovic
Jumper, Foam of the Days
Dress, Livia Tang


Cardigan, House of Sunny
Skirt, Olivia Rubin
Top and Shoes, Zara

Top, Livia Tang
Skirt, Acne
Gloves, What Katie Did
Tights, Foam of the Days
Bag, Zara

Dress, Ana Ljubinkovic
Gloves, as before

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Jacket and trousers, Zara
Gloves, Foam of the Days

Shoes, Foam of the Days


Jacket, Mango
Shirt, Fiona O’Neill at Young British Designers