EDUN
The Edun collection was big on knitwear, with Fair Isle cardigans, knitted dresses and delicate crotchet. The silky patterned layered skirts and blouses were some of my favourite pieces in the collection. I also love the fact that the collection manages to do bold prints that strike the balance of being interesting but not so crazy that you couldn't weave the pieces into a normal wardrobe.
The brand uses ethical manufacturing practices and supports trade and economic development with Africa. I love that this is the concept of the brand and that it doesn't take anything away from the design at all. Edun proves that a brand can have a conscience and be ethical and not trade off style in doing so.
THAKOON
There was definitely a global vibe to the Thakoon collection. With bold colours and prints giving the collection a modern tribal vibe. There was also an 18thC European influence with bustles and garments puffing out at the hip. The inspiration for the collection sounds a bit of strange mix on paper, but it worked and seamlessly so! In fact, it not only worked, but managed to look edgy and sporty on top, which I loved.
I hate that fashion can tend to go a bit dark and gloomy for AW (which, quite frankly, paired with the weather is the last thing I need!) and I love the idea of just going for it with colour and prints. It would definitely brighten my day! And the prints would make me feel like a strong urban warrior, ready to take on the dreary masses.
VERA WANG
Vera Wang knows how to do luxe, and the parkas on display at her AW collection showed that even a traditionally casual item could still be luxe. There was a definite nod to 1930s glamour, with floor sweeping gowns with dropped waists and gorgeous pleats. The feminine vibe was given a bit of Vera Wang edge by the accessories, scrunched long leather gloves and chunky boots.
The colour palette of the chiffon was mostly muted tones including a wine coloured gown, ivory, olive green, pale pinks and a smoky grey. And while the collection did not really stray from the mostly uniformed but slighty varying pleted gowns and luxe parkas, I still found the collection quite appealing.
VIVIENNE TAM
Inspired by Chinese Opera, the Vivienne Tam show could well have ended up a bit costumey. But thankfully that was not the case. The influence resulted in beautiful embroidered pieces, structured collars and gorgeous pattern. The collection had a hint of opulence without being too OTT and the textures of the garments looked simply beautiful.
The opulence was mixed with tweed and wool pieces, which I think worked really well and gave another layer of interest to the collection. Despite the grand nature of the influence of the collection, the pieces were still functional and (if I actually had two pence to rub together) I would feel happy wearing them.
IMAGES EDITED BY ME AND USED FOR REFERENCE PURPOSES ONLY
