London Fashion Week day two: Older models, Gigi and Bella and yet more fur
Day two of London Fashion Week kicked off with the newest design talent around. Fashion East featured collections from the likes of Matty Bovan and Mimi Wade; two names you really need to remember.
Matty’s creations were as eclectic as ever. Mish-mashed knits appeared to have an Eastern influence with bold face paint and headscarves showing up throughout. Mimi, meanwhile, freshened up her old Hollywood references, debuting furry crop tops and flouncy cloud dresses.
It was business as usual at Julien MacDonald who showcased a glittering collection full of teeny tiny dresses. Although many will never be able to fit into his revealing gowns, everyone was all smiles at the finale as the grinning designer showed off his newest muse, Winnie Harlow, and celebrated a truly diverse show.
Simone Rocha also showcased diversity, casting models of all ages to walk in her generational show. Aiming to cater to her wide-ranging clientele (who are not 18 and a size 6), the designer paired iconic models over the age of 70 with more usual faces.
It was an equally happy story for Molly Goddard who opted for the traditional show format for a second time. Huge frothy tulle numbers were dotted in the midst of pink satin pieces and simpler trench coats while a voluminous metallic dress provided the perfect update to the young designer’s signature look.
J.W. Anderson continues to be a London Fashion Week highlight. He didn’t disappoint on this occasion, displaying a utility-inspired collection that was (to use that old line) simple yet incredibly effective.
Purple silk met shimmering chainmail in a smorgasbord of fabrics. Ever the innovator, Anderson revolutionised the biker jacket, cropping it to shorter than ever before. It’s usually only a brave person that can wear J Dubs. This time, however, will appeal to all.
House of Holland’s collection will equally sell out in droves. It may have been a major clashing of prints but HOH fans can’t get enough of designer Henry’s pop culture references. On this occasion, he played out an ode to Hollywood film genres from Westerns to car racing.
Cowboy hats and boots were paired with Clueless-like kilts and shaggy coats. Separate each garment from its somewhat mad styling and you have truly wearable pieces that will be seen on the backs of celebrities and the public alike.
Donatella Versace’s Versus line finished off the jam-packed day. As always, she made sure to cast a top model line-up including sisters of the moment, Gigi and Bella Hadid. Tough shearling jackets were a staple of the entire collection with a Versus-branded zip adding a nice touch.
Fluffy blue and pink jumpers added a softer touch to an otherwise hard show. But make no mistake. Just like the message from the first day of London Fashion Week, the Versus girls were in control of themselves and relishing every minute.
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