Well, it finally happened. After a global pandemic and months of waiting London Fashion Week finally made its triumphant return. And, while some of the big industry players were absent from this year’s schedule and with a sizeable amount of designers still deciding to stick with a digital presentation, nothing could detract from those who did decide to debut their collections on the runway this season. From Nensi Dojaka and Maximilian unveiling their debut shows to Cos putting on a dramatic display, head below to enjoy the scenes born out of London’s latest Fashion Week…
Wonderland.
LFW 2021
From celebrated debut catwalks to theatre-bound reveals, here is everything that went down at this year’s event.
Nensi Dojaka
First up is this year’s LVMH Prize winner, Nensi Dojaka. Having shot to the helm of fashion fame thanks to her revolutionary take on sheer serves, the CSM graduate hosted her debut solo show this fashion week, and what a debut it was. Lingerie-meets-party wear was in abundance during Dojaka’s SS22 display, as models graced the catwalk in delicate cuts held together by body lace straps and adorned with subtle three-petaled flowers. As for shoes, long live the modern-day kitten heel! The celebratory collection was an ode to the contemporary London girl, and is one that we will be shopping heavily.
KNWLS
Ensuring that 2020’s obsession with all things Wild West got the nod that it deserved at this week’s fashion week was KNWLS as they unveiled a bodycon-centric collection laced with their signature artistic chequered patterning. As for colours, powdery lemons met a variety of earth tones, culminating in the colour palette of our dreams. And, the KNWLS cowgirl hat is now officially the accessory of the season.
Supriya Lele
Casual glamour reigned supreme at Supriya Lele’s London-bound show, as the Midlands-hailing designer’s usual array of cut-out evening wear took centre stage. Turning to varying fabrics and design techniques in the name of innovation this season, the designer debuted everything from vibrant tangerine leather two-pieces to sequin-studded net garments and lantern-shaped bags. An alternative aesthetic was welcomed by the designer, and like it or not, the 3/4 and above-the-knee cargo pants are well and truly back!
Fashion East
Probably one of the most coveted shows of London’s fashion week comes courtesy of incubator, Fashion East. Synonymous with who is up next in fashion, the show hopes to debut the best in emerging talent each season. And, at this year’s display, names both established and on the rise graced the catwalk as the eager-eyed fashion community watched in anticipation.
First up is Fashion East’s brightest star: Maximilian. While the London-based talent has shown with Fashion East in the past, since which he has become Rihanna-approved and praised by the global fashion community, this week marked his first runway display. And, in a bid to prove why the magnitude of his recent success is more than deserved, the designer unveiled his diamond-laden and tailoring-heavy display.
But, the most celebrated designs of the show? It has to be the other-worldly creations unveiled by Chet Lo. While widely-adored asymmetry and key hold cut-out detailing gave the collection a very earth-bound feel, a candy-coloured ombre colour scheme and studded horn-like detailing featuring in each piece has us transported to an alternative universe.
Simone Rocha
Simone Rocha stuck to its guns when it came to crafting its SS22 collection, and we are glad they did. Onlookers feasted on exaggerated everything as layered tulle, exaggerated silhouettes and frills galore were met with puffy outerwear and floral finishes.
David Koma
The racer aesthetic received an injection of glamour at David Koma’s SS22 show. As skintight bodysuits and neon cuts were unveiled, the show boasted an undeniably sporty feel. But, thanks to feather trims and elegant heels, the collection elevated itself to a party-ready affair.
Edward Crutchley
Regal elegancy was clearly on the brain for Edward Crutchley whilst dreaming up his Season 16 collection. Gold embellishment ran rife as ornate designs littered structured gowns and clashing patterns took precedent, resulting in a truly opulent collection.