Wonderland.

LCM: CHRISTOPHER RAEBURN SS17

Christopher Raeburn took us to another planet for SS17.

Race For Space

For SS17, Christopher Raeburn brought together menswear and womenswear to make the epic voyage from launch, to capsule, to touchdown. Drawing inspiration from the pioneering construction techniques developed in the Space Race, Raeburn used unusual fabric innovations (a trademark of his), which resulted in flame-resistant Nomex being reworked into a bright orange parka with modular pockets and velcro straps. Detachable woven badges allow the wearer to mix and match Raeburn’s lunar-inspired motifs and the white, modular pocketed coat gave the effect of an astronaut’s suit; if NASA calls, we’ll be ready.

Cosmic Capsule

Christopher Raeburn presented his vision of the future: a terrestrial dystopian world. Inspired by George Lucas’ film “THX 1138”, Raeburn contrasted the dystopian ideas that Lucas explored with the hope and momentum of the Space Age for SS17, and it was out of this world. For this season, Raeburn created the cutest rocket graphic features in his “Capsule” segment, which was emblazoned across jerseys and came in the form of a leather rocket bag. Elsewhere, lunar graphics, iconographic manifestos and moon prints featured on statement pieces, emulating Raeburn’s otherworldly inspiration. Fly us to the moon.

Fun But Functional

Raeburn brought back his core value of sustainability for SS17 and worked with functional fabrics in the form of Airbrake, Tyvek and a totally unique fabric development with partner Avery Dennsion RBIS. Looking towards his REMADE ethos, Raeburn created the “Touch Down” section of the collection, where Airbrake parachute material was reworked into over-dyed shorts, classic mens outerwear, and panelled skirts for the womenswear collection. Jersey pieces came in the form of field jackets and a bomber jacket with mesh sleeves, layered on top of tracksuit tops and gilets. The accessories range was formed of weaved backpacks and advanced versions of the packaway bag series made together with Avery Dennison RBIS, whilst footwear (made in collaboration with Clarks) was utilitarian and lightweight; details from the collection were taken and replicated through the oversized straps and solid trooper soles.

Words
Annabel Lunnon