Early in the semester, I had been particularly inspired by the work of Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons, whose bold creativity, intellectual approach to fashion, and unique ability to blend classic and conceptual design had already influenced my perspective on modern luxury. Their collaborative synergy intrigued me, and it led me to explore how they approached co-designing for Prada’s Fall/Winter 2021 Menswear Collection—a pivotal moment in the brand’s history and in the evolution of menswear.

Curious about how menswear was being redefined in recent years, I chose this collection for its striking balance between softness and structure, its rich use of texture, and the way it challenged traditional masculine codes through color, silhouette, and styling. I wanted to better understand how Prada and Simons combined their creative languages while remaining rooted in the house’s DNA. I began studying their design philosophies individually—Simons’ minimalism and subcultural references, and Prada’s fascination with uniformity, ugliness, and intellectual provocation—and how those themes emerged in this collection.

I collected primary sources including the full runway video and press coverage from outlets like Vogue Runway and Business of Fashion. Using design analysis tools and proper fashion terminology, I examined each look in detail—focusing on silhouettes, fabric choices, layering, knitwear construction, color stories, and proportions. I paid particular attention to the way the garments interacted with movement on the runway and how the setting, music, and model casting contributed to the collection’s tone.

I also researched the cultural and social climate of 2021, including how the pandemic had reshaped the role of clothing, particularly in menswear. Prada and Simons reflected this through hybrid pieces that blended comfort and elegance—structured coats paired with plush jacquard knitwear and slim trousers softened by texture. This helped me understand how their work wasn’t just aesthetic but also deeply reflective of the moment.

By studying their process—how they start with ideas, moodboards, and textures, rather than finished sketches—I gained insight into how fashion collections are constructed conceptually before they are ever cut or sewn. This deeper dive into the creative and contextual layers of their work was essential in shaping my analysis and helped me write a paper that felt both informed and inspired.