Inspiration can come from anywhere.
London Fashion Week saw designers present “worldly” collections as the globe continued opening up.
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Governments worldwide are relaxing travel and other restrictions as COVID-19 is evolving from pandemic to endemic stage.
This was reflected in Fall/Winter collection shows that ran from February 18 to 22 in the digital-physical hybrid London Fashion Week.
Here are all these different influences mapped out.
Black Culture
Feben explored visual codes of Black life, not from one particular location, but from all corners of the globe. This is consistent with nomadism in her personal background. She plays with popular imagery and takes a surrealistic approach in order to produce her vision rooted in community.
British Indian
Supriya Lele, presented sensual and sculptural dresses, on one hand, and voluminous outerwear silhouettes inspired by vintage sports and ski jacks on the other. This contrast is born from her cross-cultural point of view that examines both her Indian heritage and British identity, all while creating from a consciously female paradigm.
Irish Mythology
Simone Rocha draws from her Irish heritage to make a collection inspired by the myth of the children of Lir, who were boys and girls transformed into swans for 900 years. The collection of deconstructed Victorian frocks, taffeta ruffles, and pearl embellishments was showcased at the gothic setting of Lincoln’s Inn.
Netherlandish Proverbs
Raf Simons was influenced by Pieter Bruegel’s 1559 painting “Netherlandish Proverbs.” This translates visually to a minimalist aesthetic paired with futuristic prints and innovative materials.
Italian Art
Emilia Wickstead took visual cues from Italian architecture and cinema in her take on contemporary women’s wardrobes. She reinterpreted and learned from the women of the past in order to remove the boundaries between daywear and nightwear.
Banner Photo by London Fashion Week via Instagram