– as day one opens with body-con galore…

As many would unadmittingly agree winter dressing can cover a multitude of sins - such as those extra pounds piled on over Christmas combined with a slightly lax routine on the hair removal front. A brief look at the opening shows at London Fashion Week however will convey a somewhat alternative picture. The message for next autumn/winter thus far is super-short, body-hugging and flesh revealing - courtesy of some modestly placed cut-outs.

Designers it seems are determined to keep us at the gym post summer – a notion Sass & Bide adhered to with practically every outfit clinging to every curve. In keeping with their design ethos the Australian duo revealed sexy diva meets tribal references in monochrome shades. Shoulder details remained key as did elaborate neckpieces and mirrored embellishments.

As seen on the catwalks of New York cut-outs appeared on necklines, torsos and arms to reveal under-layers of lace, chiffon, and for the most part – bare skin. Capturing the essence of a strong, free-spirited woman with a penchant for beauty Sass & Bide didn’t disappoint, that said their core customer will need to keep trim come fall.

Elsewhere the style set were raving about the Hakaan show. Apparently Hakaan is the latest name to watch, Editor of French Vogue Carine Roitfeld flew in specially, and his front row looked particularly stellar with Kate Moss and David Walliams looking on.

Winner of the Young Fashion Designer Prize at Istanbul’s Textile and Apparel Exporter Associations while still at university Hakaan Yildirim has managed to capture top industry attention for his beautiful and yet complicated construction techniques on body-conscious silhouettes. Yes, that’s right more skin-tight sexy designs with a touch of sci-fi about them, looks like we’ll all be renewing our gym membership next season.

JoJo Iles