Clothes Show London

Grab your bags and slip on your stilettoes – the Clothes Show has returned to London for the second year running, and this year fashion’s elite have taken up residence in Earl’s Court.

On the main stage the models danced their way back into London with a spectacular catwalk show that focused on the fashion capitals of the world; Tokyo, New York, Milan, Paris and of course London. This was my first Clothes Show experience – and I was not disappointed. While the models danced and performed their way down the catwalk, scene setting music filled the auditorium. The talented designers provided not only a dazzling array of fashion that encapsulates summer 2010 but also an insinuation of what’s to come for A/W – with trends such as Americana, sportswear and red all fighting for the spotlight.

Here’s a rundown of the main trends seen during the three day fashion frenzy that is known as the Clothes Show London!

 

Lady Gaga

For a long time now, music and fashion have been like two peas in a pod, and this season the Clothes Show was going gaga for Gaga!

From structured shapes to all that sparkles, colour-popping bodysuits to cone bras… countless features reminiscent of Lady G’s spectacular wardrobe were transformed into ready-to-wear garments by the Clothes Show designers, that were all surprisingly wearable!

Hats and statement jewellery were also shown in abundance throughout the show transforming any outfit they accompanied.

 

Athletic

Sportswear has been seen on catwalks across the globe this season, and there was no exception this weekend at the Clothes Show. So whether you have World Cup or Wimbledon fever the Clothes Show designers have the perfect outfit to match. Cycling shorts were showcased with fierce skyscraper heals, leather was mixed with Lycra and references to riding, tennis and baseball were in abundance.

Although many of the garments would not have looked out of place in an episode of The Fresh Prince of Bel Air they still managed to appeal – however to avoid looking like a 15 year old chav, pair some killer heals with your harem tracksuit trousers to get the casual chic look of the season.

 

Americana

If you like the idea of the Athletic trend but can’t bring yourself to buy some MC Hammer-style trousers then Americana styling is for you – a careful mix of sportswear and classic chic.

Summer 2010 saw a return to casual menswear with a classic edge – cardigans and low draped tops were out – tailored denim, chinos and jock jackets were in. While for women there was an abundance of tea dresses and cardigans that would not have looked out of place in a 1950’s milkshake bar! Both C Grand London and Where Are You Now? Josie featured and provided cute summer dresses in fabulous florals.

Enjoy y’all!

 

Classic Glamour

I’m a sucker for old-school glamour – chic tailoring and timeless romance. In line with tradition it was against the backdrop of Italy and France that these styles were showcased. Classic black and summer’s hottest shade; white, were combined with draped elegance for the women and traditional tailored suits for men. Me and Thee stole the show (and my heart!) with their bold prints and soft drapes – chic enough to make any woman feel like they were the leading lady in an old Bogart movie.

 

Colours

A varied colour palette was seen throughout the show – with colour popping brights to compliment the Lady Gaga style garments, to classic monochrome details that only added to the old school glamour of the Paris and Milan shows. Red was also shown on occasion which hinted towards the huge colour trend that is about to take off for Autumn/Winter 2010.

 

 

With fashion (and of course freebies!) galore every taste and trend was covered – and as the undeniable capital of fashion; London was the perfect backdrop… I’m booking my ticket for next year now!

 

 

Kate Proctor

Images Andy Espin