The start of the new year meant the fashion world were gearing up and getting ready to show us what's going to be hot by Autumn/Winter 15. Once again, I teamed up with Who's Jack Magazine to to attend some of the shows and write coverage. Below are some of my favourite shows I saw this season.
First up on the menswear side was Barbour who were celebrating their first ever presentation at London Collections Men. The event was laid back with free champagne at the door - always a winner - and attracted the likes of David Gandy, who I will never get tired of bumping into!
Barbour AW15
The presentation was made up of live models and clothing on rails so you could really get a close look and feel for the collection. Inspiration came from the 1919 Barbour catalogue and introduced to contemporary techniques, combining heritage with modernity. Traditional tweeds were speckled and layered with camo print and patchwork knitwear.
The colour scheme consisted of three stories: navy, olive and brown (established Barbour favourites). Overall, the look was stylish and fashion forward whilst remaining very wearable.
Barbour AW15
From traditional British outerwear, we move onto international luxury tailoring label, Velsvoir. The presentation took place at London's Edition Hotel in a swanky basement bar. As soon as I walked in, the slick set up of luxurious armchairs, pristine glass tables and ornate floral arrangements gave me the feeling that this collection would be extremely smart and refined.
Velsvoir AW15
After a few minutes of anticipation whilst the bar filled up with guests, the composed models walked out and took their posts on set. We were free to walk around, mingle and admire the collection at our own leisure whilst models posed and rotated positions.
Velsvoir AW15
The collection had a moody, dark feel to it which was aptly conveyed by the dimly lit venue. Bold stripes made up shirts and waistcoats, styled with quirky, printed bow ties which the brand specialises in.
Inspiration came from 'crisp winter days bathed in sunlight.' This can be seen in the sharp tailoring and contrasting colour scheme of moody shades against crisp white.
Velsvoir AW15
Photographer: Prexa
Moving on to womenswear and one of the first shows I saw - Australian label Sass and Bide, whose show was appropriately held at Australia House. This collection was the new Creative Director, Anthony Cuthbertson's debut show so the pressure was on!
The brand is known for its artisanal handiwork, free spirit and bold statements and Anthony certainly did not disappoint. Stunning metallic embellishments glistened against a monochrome base and there was intricate beading on almost everything from jackets and dresses down to leggings.
Sass and Bide AW15
Photographer: Rosemary Pitts
The silhouette was comprised of structured, boxy jackets over both sculpted pieces and flowing, pleated, glitter skirts. I particularly loved the cutout detailing and lattice dresses. Tousled straight hair and dark eye make up gave the collection a fiercer edge and created a sense of power and confidence.
Sass and Bide AW15
The show I was most impressed by this year was Mimi Tran whose collection exuded glamour! The brand celebrates femininity and aims to enhance a woman's beauty. Models were styled with cascading, glossy curls which mimicked the fluidity of some of the designs.
Mimi Tran AW15
The designs experimented with sheer panelling, glistening embellishments and delicate lace work. Silhouettes ranged from figure hugging cocktail dresses (Mimi's signature) to flared, A-line mini dresses and skirts paired with cropped tops in bold prints. This showcased both womanly glamour and girly playfulness, all within one collection.
Mimi Tran AW15
Perhaps Mimi's eye for elegance comes from her childhood spent in Paris where she was recognised as a gifted creative. I was surprised to learn that Mimi actually graduated with a degree in electrical engineering! Luckily for the fashion world, Mimi's creative side won.
Mimi Tran AW15
Click here to see more of my posts from fashion week with Who's Jack.
