David Koma RTW Fall 2021

Rahul KumarMar 04, 2021Fashion

David Koma’s high-shine, high-glamour world and the world of sportswear might initially appear like an odd mix.

But Koma has always had a flair for sport: He has often turned to tennis and horse riding for inspiration, regularly uses technical materials to refresh evening silhouettes, and dresses many stylish, athletic women — Maria Sharapova included.

For fall 2021, he injected sportswear elements further into his designs. But that’s not to say that he’s taking the easy route and designing average work-from-home gear, like tracksuits. Instead, Koma aimed at channeling “the feeling of strength associated with athleticism” and mish-mashing comfort and glamour, day and eveningwear in a way that felt relevant to how women will want to dress when the world starts to open up.

They might still want to wear leggings but they might opt for Koma’s glamorous flared version instead, featuring side slits and large crystal embellishments, or alternatively they could go for the designer’s body-hugging, elastic-knit dresses and loose jumpsuits, elevated with a touch of sparkle on the edges.

“It’s your next-level comfy glove,” the designer said.

In an ode to Pierre Cardin, Koma also introduced a graphic black-and-white pattern, printed allover tailored separates and a signature mini number to striking effect.

Outerwear made for another hit in the collection — the oversize shearling cape of the finalé look was a real showstopper — and is opening up Koma to a brand new audience.

But while the designer is carefully broadening up his offer, he hasn’t lost sight of what he does best: Cocktail dresses remained strong throughout the collection and Koma took things up a notch with extreme, angular cuts and couture-like embellishments inspired by fine jewelry.

Upbeat sequin numbers and little black dresses featuring corset details, dramatic side slit and large circular embellishments will sure come in handy for post-lockdown celebrations.