With only a day respite between shows, the fashion pack are back at it. This time, it’s London Fashion Week, where viewers can expect an edgier display of Spring 2009 Ready to Wear fashions, especially when Henry Holland, Vivienne Westwood and Giles Deacon are involved.
Here are the hits on the runways so far:
The colour palette Graeme Black used was rather blah… various shades of nudes were shown throughout the collection. When looking at the shapes and the designs though, my interest peaked. Apparently Mr. Black says his inspiration was the Hebrides of Scotland, but I beg to differ. The clothes could have been plucked right off the backs of women on the French Riviera. There was an ease, yet sophistication to the clothes that I found appealing. A woman could just throw on one of the outfits and look incredibly chic.
The Queen’s designer, Aquascutum, showcased a collection fit for any royalty. Deep, navy blues interspersed with bright whites ruled the runway. All perfect for a weekend at your posh English manor or for your visit to 10 Downing Street.
In a very feminine and sensual collection presented on Monday, noted menswear designer Sir Paul Smith proved that he is also talented in the womenswear department. What he also proved is that it IS possible to make hammer-pants look good, with his modern take on a harem pant. Burnt reds and gorgeous silk scarves tied around waists were heavily featured. Inspired by an Orientalist painting exhibit, it was a very exotic collection that gave off a scent of cinnamon…
Temperley London’s Spring collection was a mix of various references that weren’t cohesive. Despite this, Alice Temperley presented a beautiful “romantic odyssey” (her words, not mine). Short and long flowing Grecian dresses are sure to be picked up by the ladies sitting front row, Mischa Barton and Alexa Chung among them. The cloche hats didn’t fit in with the Grecian though and reminded me of Proenza Schouler a couple of seasons ago. As individual pieces, the clothes are lovely, but they just didn’t fit as one unit.
Julien MacDonald wowed audiences with a mature and glamourous assortment of clothes. Feathered details made dresses seem light as air and the neutral tones made each piece classic. I desperately want this beaded, feathered number in my closet to wear to Elton John’s next Oscar party… I think my invitation got lost in the mail last year…
The Risk Takers:
Charles Anastase showed an interesting collection on Sunday, one with a sassy / nerdy schoolgirl theme. A bit Babysitter’s Club Mallory - big eyeglasses and all (did I just date myself?). I can’t say that I liked it all, but one leather biker jacket definitely caught my eye. Think I’ll pass on the tutu-esque skirt and platform shoes though…
The Luella show was a cheeky affair splashed with lavenders, oranges and hot pinks. Lavender and orange are colours that are too seldom matched together - they look amazing when next to each other. There were obvious nods to Chanel in the form of boxy tweed jackets and pearls. It was stuffy upper class British mixed with Mardi Gras, in the best possible way. Former Vogue journalist, Luella Bartley is quickly becoming a star.
Contrary to previous seasons, Giles Deacon showed a very wearable and commercial collection for Spring 2009 in his larger than life video game - some models even donned Pac Man hats. Dresses were printed with modern graphics in yellows, metallics, white and black, and some paired with feather boas. And as I was at the Marchesa show, I’m drawn to the black and white ballgown here. G.O.R.G.E.O.U.S.
What won’t be making it to my closet:
The 80’s at Topshop Unique. Hommage was paid to Madonna’s Material Girl years, not in a good way.
Jodie Foster. Weird? Yes. Peter Jensen showed a collection right out of Silence of the Lambs. Kind of creepy fan behaviour. Ms. Foster may need to file a restraining order.
Since when did clothes become invisible? I think Louise Goldin forgot to dress her models…
Part Two of London Fashion Week coming this weekend.
Check out the London Street Style during London Fashion Week at Style and the City.
New York Fashion Week - Part One New York Fashion Week - Part Two Photos courtesy of Style.com and WWD

























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