As London’s Baroque wonder-boy Ed Marler steps away from Fashion East, things get sparklier and sexier for SS16.

Royal Court

Held in a backstreet courtyard adorned with ruby streamers, Ed Marler’s show took on a palatial feeling for SS16. A brightly lit back room led guests to the king of the show, sat on his throne surrounded by leaves, bin bags and more tinsel. Marler’s signature crowns were more decadent than ever curling around faces and flowers and even had the designer’s own initials inscribed. Textures were fit for royalty in silks and tulles blooming from every possible point.

Supernatural Beings

Pixie crops were the hairstyle of choice and there was an elfin feeling surrounding the whole collection, thanks in part to the set. A grand location wasn’t needed, that came from the clothes. Barefooted boys in dresses strode around the presentation sprinkling confetti to the ground from paper bags while the girls balanced on teetering heels, snacking delicately on biscuits and swishing their skirts. The layers and lengths of material were fit for formalwear but the nods to Marler’s previous sportier ventures were evident in silver popper embellishments and white tube socks.

Undone Luxe

Marler’s best efforts are always done in denim, leopard print and sequins. Amidst all the intricacies the basics were still there. Leopard sleeves and knees peeked out from under gowns and trousers got the full glitter treatment with sequins sewn in from hip to ankle. Ready for the red carpet or the cold, chicken bone littered curb of Kingsland Road, Marler triumphs in treading the line between drop-dead glamour and uncompromising cool once more.

Photographer: Thurstan Redding

Words: Lily Walker