London Fashion Week was five days of fabulousness. With all the usual heavyweights showcasing their collections, whether it be by catwalk, film or presentation – we even poached Tommy Hilfiger from New York!
As expected, there were the outrageously impractical cuffs, summer sequins, larger than life ruffles and anoraks on display. Yup, the Great British summer essential is now making waves, or at least puddles on the runway… Even the Queen’s timeless style was immortalised at the Bora Aksu show.
My personal favourites were (as usual), Ashish and his Queer logo top, Marques’ Almeida for summer sequins, and Osman for something (everything) pretty. Matty Bovan who showcased at Fashion East, let loose with a colouring box and created a collection fit for a modern art gallery. Jasper Conran is the label to look to for understated sportswear, and Markus Lupfer not only presented with a gorgeous sausage dog, his patterns, knits and crochet combos are on my lust list. And don’t get me started on his sunglasses!
Nicola Formichetti’s Nicopanda offered a cutesy selection of pastel pinks, albeit in PVC dungarees, and ruffled shirts. Even conservative stalwart, Paul Costelloe showcased his classic models in clashing red and pink PVC (no less!). The male models complemented this in a range of wedding ready suits- with the pastel rainbow two piece gaining a round of applause!
Bum bags are back at House of Holland along with a ninety ravers vibe, and if you have the figure for it, squeeze into one of Donatella Versace’s Vogue print catsuits…if they are good enough for the original supers…! (shown in Milan, but loved everywhere…) Newbie designer Billie Jacobina hit the spot with skateboarding girls and prints to dazzle in her Fashion Scout presentation.
However, if you are looking something more aherm, refined, the eighties were leading the way at Ashley Williams with tiger print twin sets, and blue hair! The eighties also cropped up at the off-schedule shows including Irene Sj Yu (tiger print, crop tops, ruffles and lacing).
For a touch of Anne of Green Gables, kit yourself out in the best ruffles you can buy, and check out Preen, Fyodor Golan, HAIZHEN WANG and Marques’ Almeida. Pretty, floaty and flirty, let’s just hope we get some sunshine to show these pretties off!
And when you have something to hide, you might be tempted to try one of the bustle dresses from Erdem, Mary Katrantzou or Simone Rocha who have taken inspiration from Balenciaga; With versions of the iconic bubble dress- which might look extremely pretty, but ain’t gonna be easy to run for a bus in!
More wearable collections, and something who for those who are looking to invest in something practical should definitely take note of Sharon Wauchob – with a collection of (majoritively sleek lines), the trouser suits, oversized macs and boots are a dream!
If you like me, like suits, Eudon Choi is the guy to go to for oversized pink options, and Daks are channelling a pinstripe (schoolgirl) vibe! If you love a bit of lilac, get thee to Joseph for lilac and checks, and remember you can mix and match!
Whether you are a glamour puss, or a sport billy, there is no doubt you can find something you fancy in London’s fabulous talent. Enjoy and happy shopping.
