LFW SS16

I’ve always had a conflicting relationship with London Fashion Week, never keeping up with high-fashion trends and the dramas that followed; I always thought it was for the elite. But taking a moment to reflect on this year’s show I have a new found respect for the event and the industry. I still believe that most of the designers are given too much credit, considering their designs would never actually transpire in the real world, but the passion and the hype surrounding this week by the fans has made me re-think it’s potential and importance in today’s society. Here are a few of my favourites; some good, some bad and some ugly.

Burberry Prorsum

As one of the hottest tickets at LFW, Burberry did not disappoint with their SS16 showcase that set the bar high for fans and peers alike. An eclectic selection of fascinating fabrics and stark, yet complimentary contrasts between an essence of regalia and common fashion staples. Adorned with layers of lace and functional, yet stylish overcoats the models walked flawlessly down the runway as cameras flashed and eyes opened to the familiar yet foreign Burberry collection.

The backpack is back! One of the most notable features of the S/S 2016 collection is the return of the humble backpack, a brave step for Burberry but one that recognises the need for change in an unforgiving industry. Proving why they’re the show to be seen at, Burberry have once again taken London Fashion Week in their stride – seasoned campaigners that aren’t afraid to push the boundaries of their established brand.

Christopher Kane

In an incredible showcase of acid colours and juxtaposing fabrics, this is how Christopher Kane single handedly broke down the conventions of an LFW Show. Unsophisticated and troubled, Kane’s catwalk was awash with harsh lines and cutting fabrics, brought together by the unravelling of unspoken rules.

Cable ties worn around models necks and wrists in place of jewellery were just the beginning. Sheer corn blue blouses, plastic dresses and spray painted jackets were also among the intriguing collection not un-common for Kane.

A seemingly raw concept of “crash and repair” as stated by Christopher himself, seems to have taken a wrong turn for some, but for others the collection has reached its innovative destination. As a designer that sparks controversy and conversation across the world those lucky enough to have found themselves at his show were in awe of some truly unique and often bizarre pieces. One thing’s for sure, Kane is out to make some noise and he certainly did with his show this week.

House of Holland

High street favourite Henry Holland featured his new collection of busy prints and hedonistic acknowledgements this week at his dark, 360 degree show attended by the likes of Alexa Chung, Daisy Lowe and Nick Grimshaw. Manchester born Holland celebrated all things London with his daring 60s inspired prints, mixed with tailored cuts. He’s been a firm favourite for many on the catwalk for some time now, proving that high fashion is easily transferable to the high street if done right.

Not only were his designs inspiring but the set up of the show stole the hearts and imagination of far more. The fashion house also unveiled their collaboration with Visa Europe to launch a wearable payment technology. Guests were given a House of Holland designed ring that could be used to purchase items on the catwalk immediately. These new types of smart technology will soon become our everyday, but for now this novel idea created a greater audience participation that LFW sometimes lacks.

Born from a love of the city, Holland played with the differing cultures and crossovers within London’s fashion scene, something he has always aspired to do. It’s safe to say that he has more up his sleeve and this snippet of his new collection at LFW was just the tip of the iceberg.

All images courtesy of Vogue.co.uk