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Creative Director Walter Chiapponi Champions Craftsmanship In Tod’s SS21 Collection

Creative Director Walter Chiapponi Champions Craftsmanship In Tod’s SS21 Collection

The result? A collection that's more tactile and lived-in.

Photo: Ching

Creative director Walter Chiapponi’s film presentation of Tod’s Spring/Summer 2021 collection (starring models Irina Shayk, Mariacarla Boscono and Karen Elson) started off slow and quiet—almost ASMR-like—before picking up pace with displays of spontaneity and candour, signalling a new direction envisioned by Chiapponi.

The inspiration behind Chiapponi’s novel approach was none other than the craftspeople he worked with in creating the collection. The result? A series of clothes and accessories sporting intricate details and handmade elements that felt tactile and lived-in.

Related article: Tod’s Short Film ‘Sounds of a Planet’ is Straight Out of a Daydream

Tod's SS 21

(From left) Tod’s Slip-ons, $930; Tod’s Oboe Mini Bag, $1,950; Tod’s Sandals, $870. Photo: Ching

As with all Tod’s collections, accessories are one of the key highlights and this season is no different. In terms of footwear, the leather sandals are definitely worth mentioning. Made with luxurious leather, they feature plexiglass heels in an hourglass shape that perfectly complements the tactile nature of its straps and buckle. The Gommino sandals come at a close second, decked out with studs and fastened with laces that rise to the ankle. And if you like cork platform wedges, you’ll be glad to know that they also feature the same plexiglass heels as the leather sandals.

The bags in this collection also deserve a worthy mention. Think soft deconstructed shoppers, made with minimal cuts of leather and folded to perfection. There’s also Tod’s Oboe bag, which is their updated version of the hobo featuring a softer profile. 

Related article: Tod’s Capri Lifestyle Collection Is Your Effortless Summer Style Shortcut

Creative Director Walter Chiapponi Champions Craftsmanship In Tod’s SS21 Collection

(From left) Tod’s Oboe Leather Mini Bag, $2,150; Tod’s Wedge Sandals, $1,080. Photo: Ching

Creative Director Walter Chiapponi Champions Craftsmanship In Tod’s SS21 Collection

Washed suede is the key material used here with big stitches to accentuate the idea of handmade luxury. From the choice of material to silhouette and craftsmanship, the bags in this series echo the spirit of spontaneity that’s seen on the clothes and shoes. 

Both the women and men’s collections share a sense of nonchalance and ease. The washed suede and canvas safari jackets,  liquid duster jackets, patchwork leather blousons, pleated trousers and long shirts all have a seemingly soft and malleable quality to them, which is probably because the fabrics are over-washed, wrinkled and creased intentionally, giving the garments a lived-in look. Tailoring is a key highlight in this collection too, with sporty accents and oversized silhouettes that underscore a sense of modernity. 

Related article: TOD’s Made By Humans Project Campaign Celebrates The People Behind The Brand

Creative Director Walter Chiapponi Champions Craftsmanship In Tod’s SS21 Collection

(From left) Tod’s Sandals , $870; Tod’s Timeless T Bag, $2,930. Photo: Ching

Creative Director Walter Chiapponi Champions Craftsmanship In Tod’s SS21 Collection

This season, Chiapponi uses vibrant colours for his creations—from emerald green hues to dusty pink shades and warm sunflower tones—giving the collection an energetic, contemporary cool vibe.

Tod’s Paragon: Unit #01-48, Paragon
Tod’s Marina Bay Sands: #B1-108 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

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