Ports 1961 RTW Fall 2021
The Ports 1961 gal? She’s a woman of substance, enveloped in chunky knits, shaggy coats and wooly skirts as warming and supple as blankets. Karl Templer, artistic director of Ports 1961, was determined to dress women in robust clothing as they venture out of lockdown, and into a new normal.
The look: Ribbed, cabled or thickly braided knits made from a mix of faux fur, wool and leather; statement collars; cocooning outerwear and even a fur-covered dress. Protective and substantial, but with soft edges; this could be the new power dressing.
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Quote of note: “It’s a journey back to dressing again, with more of a focus on the essential rather than the frivolous,” Templer said. “There’s a sense of warmth, but also a strong attitude, and silhouette.”
Standout pieces: Skater skirts that looked as if they were fashioned from blankets; a sensual sweater dress knotted and twisted around the body; a blue ribbed knit coat with wooly arms and bodice, and all the big statement collars. Volume went too far with the oversize, watery green turtleneck knit top, which looked awkward and unwieldy.
Takeaway: Ports 1961 is marking its 60th anniversary this year, and has been going strong under Templer and the creative team. These clothes flatter, comfort and serve a purpose at a time when women are turning their wardrobes upside down and rethinking how they want to dress in the outside world.
Launch Gallery: Ports 1961 RTW Fall 2021
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