But despite only a handful of designers taking to traditional in-person runway shows, the rest opting for presentations and virtual shows, our favourite brands still managed to bring the heat with head-turning collections and plenty of beauty looks to add to our spring/summer mood boards.
And though we're only slowly returning to public life, these ready-to-wear runway trends are surprisingly user friendly and just ooze effortless cool. Whether you're going for bold smokey eyes à la Chanel or free-flowing fringes in the style of Paco Rabanne, these looks put an '80s punk twist on minimalist beauty, proving that simple certainly doesn't equal boring.
Peep all the top six beauty trends that we're taking with us into summer.
Makeup
Smokey Eyes
As seen at: Chanel, Chloé, Giambattista Valli
A classic smokey eye is notoriously difficult to master. But this new take leaves minimal room for error. Simply blend like the wind like at Chanel or opt for framed liner like Giambattista Valli—no cut creases around here.
Neon Red Lips
As seen at: Balmain, Hermès, Versace, Max Mara
If there's anything that gets our attention, it's a bold red lip. And we reckon the latest iteration to be donning this summer is this traffic-stopping neon red.
Pro tip: Leave the rest of your look relatively bare for maximum colour impact.
Peachy Flush
As seen at: Alberta Ferretti, Louis Vuitton, Gabriela Hearst
For summer, the best kind of blush is the one blends seamlessly into your bronzer. A peachy-hued blush sits best on your cheekbones, but feel free to run some across your nose, forehead and eyelids for the sunkissed effect.
Hair
The New Wet-Look
As seen at: Acne Studios, Versace, Chloé, Givenchy
Slick hair has become a runway staple, but now we're seeing the wet-look take on a much more 'undone' form. Gel is still essential for creating this look, but skip the comb and run the product through with your fingers, leaving a little natural texture to give hair some movement.
Shaggy Fringes
As seen at: Paco Rabanne, Hermès, Valentino
We've always been told that there's a right and wrong way to cut a fringe. But throughout lockdown we've seen the shaggy fringe come out on top. Keep it textured like at Paco Rabanne, or lightly curl it for the Hermès look.
Pro tip: Always consult your hairdresser before taking the plunge.
Windswept Up-Dos
As seen at: Dior, Erdem
These designers are giving your fresh-from-the-gym hair a fashionable rewrite. Put down the gel and comb and embrace the frizz and baby hairs. Throw on a knotted headband like the Dior models if you're feeling a little extra.
