Like so many brands, SAINT LAURENT wasn’t able to put on a physical show for its summer 2021 collection, which was supposed to make its debut in Hawaii. But a global pandemic wasn’t going to stop creative director Mr Anthony Vaccarello. Instead, the label decided to transport its customers via an atmospheric, globe-trotting film that hopped between Beijing and New York and finished on a catwalk that, through an impressive feat of CGI, wrapped around the Eiffel Tower.

If that weren’t enough of a showstopper, there was also the small matter of the collection itself, which blended Vaccarello’s penchant for drama with languid silhouettes and bold prints. Here are 10 of the best pieces.

Few things say, “I’m ready for my holidays now,” quite like a printed short-sleeved shirt. We might not be able to jet off anywhere scorching just yet, but this aloha-inspired one, which is made of airy lyocell, will tide us over until we can.

Settling on the right sunglasses for summer isn’t easy, not least because it’s wise to pick a pair that go with everything in your wardrobe. You won’t go wrong with classic tortoiseshell and this D-frame shape ticks the 1970s trend box, too.

Even if a trip to the beach isn’t on the cards this summer, there’s no reason you can’t still dress for the beach (see also the summery shirt above). These espadrilles are made from buttery suede and the soles are reinforced with rubber, so they’re suitable for city streets.

When SAINT LAURENT dropped the “Yves” from its name, there were a few folks, especially purists, who had trouble letting go. To those (and anyone with a penchant for 1990s-era sportswear), your prayers have been answered with this polo. It’s embroidered with the original interlocking YSL logo on the chest.

Another one for the typography fans in the house. Printed with the Rive Gauche logo – the name the brand adopted in the 1960s when Mr Yves Saint Laurent opened his boutique on the Left Bank in Paris – this hoodie is as comfy as the one you’ve become attached to during lockdown, but, thanks to the slim fit, a touch smarter for public outings.

Ever wanted to look like an actual midsummer sunset? Well, have we got good news for you. Apart from the mesmerising effect, this T-shirt is made from silky cotton-jersey and cut in a slightly oversized fit. If we didn’t know any better, we’d think it was a vintage find.

If you caught our recent exposé on the number of celebrities baring their legs, you’ll know we are living in a new era of short shorts. Could you achieve the same cut-off effect by butchering a pair of old jeans? Maybe. But do you really want to spend any more time on DIY than you have to?

A SAINT LAURENT collection wouldn’t be a SAINT LAURENT collection without a healthy number of trucker jackets. We’re particularly fond of this 1970s-inspired version, which comes in a rich shade of toffee-toned tobacco and has an array of teeny tiny pockets for your teeny tiny essentials.

If you’re a little colour shy when it comes to your wardrobe and you want to change that, accessories are the best place to start. This teal backpack, a silhouette that is now a brand signature, is printed with tropical flora that will liven up any outfit.

If easing out of your sweatpants and into smarter togs has been a shock to the system, don’t fret. You’ll be happy to hear wide-legged trousers are a perfectly acceptable (and trendy) alternative and they’re every bit as comfy, but infinitely more refined.