It’s the end of London Fashion Week. The RTW shows for Spring 2009 were forward, daring, classic and romantic, exactly what was expected from this eclectic town.

Here are the highlights from the last few days in London:

Love it:

Japanese anime made an appearance in London in the form of Basso & Brooke. They presented an energetic collection of bold prints and bright colours. Unfortunately, the busy backdrop on the catwalk took away from the elaborate clothes somewhat. Despite this, the talented printmakers did not disappoint, their clothes will be flying off the racks.

The Mulberry collection was a welcome break from the 80’s phenomenon going on in nearly every other show. This collection was a young, laid back presentation featuring clothes that would be worn by Kate Middleton. And let’s not forget the bags, what Mulberry is best known for. Handbags, clutches, totes… on every girls’ wish list.

Richard Nicoll has brought back 90’s minimalism in the best possible way. His slouchy suits didn’t appeal to me but the contrasting colour blocks and elegant shapes were calming and easy on the eyes. Definitely a throwback to 90’s Calvin Klein.

Issa is a collection for those wealthy, yet laid back set. Danielle Helayel knows her customers well and each piece in her collection was targeted right at them - right on the money. The clothes were pretty and soft, yet elegant. Plus, how could you go wrong when you’ve got Naomi Campbell closing your show? PS… She’s still got the best catwalk saunter around.

Romance and fantasy were in the air at the Erdem show. Influenced by France, Monet’s garden and Midsummer Night’s Dream, delicate creations and chantilly lace were displayed throughout. This was a soft and beautiful collection, perfect for those poetry reading, daydreaming types.

Sinha-Stanic channeled fifties rockabilly for Spring 2009. Skinny trousers, slim dresses, metallic fabrics and darker shades were rampant on the runway. Clothes fit for any rocker groupie or girlfriend.

Not loving it:

I have to admit that I was quite disappointed with the Vivienne Westwood Red Label collection. It was a bit boring and safe by Vivienne Westwood standards, I was hoping for more punk, more edge. Some of the fabric actually looked cheap and some of the clothes looked like they were picked up at Forever 21. Let’s hope her show in Paris on September 29th is a lot more impressive.

Henry Holland at House of Holland threw a garden party this week. An 80’s mad hatter garden party, that is. Apparently inspired by season one of the original Beverly Hills 90210, Donna Martin and Kelly Taylor would definitely be seen rocking these clothes. Although, I’m not sure who, besides Agyness Deyn. would be doning these designs in 2009…

Nathan Jenden’s show was bright and fun, dripping with 80’s references. Some of the pieces can easily be worn in real life and will do well at the retail level, but other items, such as the shimmering suit is only meant for a re-make of Absolutely Fabulous. While the 80’s were an obvious influence, it were as though each piece were from a different 80’s genre. I felt that in comparing different outfits, you would never guess they were from the same collection.

I have to say, the first few days at London Fashion Week proved much more interesting than the last few days. Now, it’s on to Milan… Gucci (my favourite), Prada, Missoni, Burberry, Armani, Etro, Bottega Veneta, Fendi, Versace… time to get serious…

Check out the London Street Style during London Fashion Week at Style and the City.