GFW – Day 1

Eliesha George opened University of East London’s show with her collection “Queen D”. She  showed dramatic neck ruffles best described as future-Elizabethan. Faces were framed by imposing and super-sized sculptural collars. The drama of the neck lines was balanced by simple, often figure hugging shapes in wet-look PVC. Waists were exaggerated  in homage to Elizabethan corsetry. The use of basic black and white took the historical references into a altogether more minimal realm.

The neckline was also a focal point for Anna Kilpatrick – her collection featured bold block colours, built-up shoulder and leather cutwork neckpieces.

Peek-a-boo pleats were the main feature of Sarah Ward’s sharp and simple collection. Greys and neutrals were accented by a warm rust. Chevron prints added an eye-catching graphic element to the   tailored dresses, trousers and skirts and jackets.

 

 

Janine Marie Whittaker began here collection with a magenta jacket emblazoned with white diamonds. The strong colours were complemented by strong, angular shapes and vivid digital prints.

 

 

“Urban Nomad” by Stephanie Long was one part slouchy Snow Queen, one part Geisha elegance. The all-white collection featured pom-pom headpieces worn with  gathered neck sweaters, whispy chiffon skirts and trousers.

 

 

A striking orange and yellow stripe fabric ensured that Maria White’s “From Here to There” collection got noticed. It began with an attention grabbing headress inspired by the gypsy workers of Portugal. The  use of earthy tones maintained the collection’s rural roots, whilst draped cowl necks and trousers gave an urban edge. Skirts were snagged and gathered with flashes of red trim; dresses featured panels of blue-grey and practical deep pockets.

 

 

The show closed with Le Thuy Le Thi’s “Afternoon Tea” – patisserie shades and fine china inspired prints provided a suitably sweet and striking way to end. Tiered tops and dresses were a visual mille-feuille. The peach laser cut top, worn over a gossamer fine column dress with blue embroidery had a dreamy girlish feel, like spun sugar atop a delectable delight.