Graduate Fashion Week 2017: Day 3 – De Montfort University

08-06-2017

2017 dmu rosie 36-year-old Darren Scott (above) kicked off proceedings with a vibrant menswear array, illustrating the history of hip-hop through amalgamating striking neoprene with classic wool and jersey fabrics. Knitwork dominated many of the graduates’ inspirations, subsequently emerging as a standout aesthetic. This technique resonated through the collections of Bethany Griffiths, Laura Branningan and Rosie Allanby’s (right) sartorials’, where oversized and open knit designs on polo neck jumpers, crop tops and dresses came deconstructed and intriguing. Lauren Nisbet was a particular standout, where voluminous, XXL woollens were exaggerated and combined with colourful tartans.

2017 dmu ahnees Speaking of colour, the catwalk saw a riot of vibrancy. Bold hues arrived in loud and proud splashes at Ahnees Butt (left), where clashing pinks, purples, reds and then some artfully decorated many gossamer midi and maxi dresses. An instant resemblance to Matthew Williamson sprang to mind. Equally as eye-catching was Jake London, who adorned bright botanical 3D plastic flowers onto a blend of block-colour separates.

Impressive acts of technology emitted from Raabia Arif’s womenswear collection. Combining design and illustration, rain macs and diaphanous dresses were crafted with latex crinoline and then digitally printed with her hand-drawn graphics. She intends to incorporate the intermingling techniques into her foreseeable fashions.

Elsewhere, Gloria Iyare adopted a Comme des Garçons aesthetic via large and ostentatious puffer coats; Eleanor Bandley channelled femininity and romance with her beautifully pleated chiffon panels attached to jumpsuits, skirts, blouses and handbags, whilst Allarna Webb’s (below) collection inspired by painters and decorated was designed from linen, vinyl and acrylic paints. Ultimately, for those seeking the height of design inspiration and variation, look no further than De Montfort University.

2017 dmu allarna