London Fashion Week made a strong statement this year by placing a special focus on eco-responsibility and humanitarian causes. One designer that stood out was Bethany Williams, who presented a collection that incorporated recycled garments made by prison inmates. Collaborating with The Magpie Project, a grassroots organization supporting homeless women and children in East London, Williams showcased her collection titled “All Our Stories.” Drawing inspiration from folklore and childhood narratives, the collection featured vibrant sweaters, tops, and dresses that could be worn by individuals of all ages. The underlying message of the collection emphasized the importance of kindness, care, and respect for others throughout both childhood and adulthood.
Another notable brand that made waves at London Fashion Week was Auroboros, a hyper-tech fashion brand. They presented their Biomimicry Digital ready-to-wear collection through an innovative Augmented Reality video. Auroboros successfully merged the realms of nature and technology, creating bio-mechanical-looking designs that bore resemblance to the work of renowned designer Iris van Herpen. The collection was exclusively digital, with the clothing showcased on a physical model and styled by Sita Abellan. It was available for purchase on Dress X and the Auroboros website, capturing attention both online and offline through billboards and fly posters across London.
One of the most captivating moments of the opening day of London Fashion Week was the screening of a documentary called “Generation Rewear.” The film focused on young designers who were dedicated to responsible fashion practices, such as upcycling and recycling dead stock and discarded clothing. These designers embraced concepts like the sharing economy, up-washing, multi-functional garments, and slowing down the fast fashion cycle. Through their stories, the documentary offered revealing insights and inspiration, shedding light on the sustainable fashion movement.
Qasimi, a fashion label, provided a poetic and visually stunning collection inspired by the colors and shapes of the Gulf Region. The garments included floating tunics, elongated shirting with Nehru collars, and block check suits. One standout piece was a women’s trouser suit with dhoti pants, showcasing a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements. The collection was presented in a modernist villa designed by architect Sir Raymond McGrath, accompanied by a beautifully landscaped setting by Christopher Tunnard. Despite the unfortunate passing of Qasimi’s founder, Khalid Al Qasimi, in 2019, his impactful ideas continued to shape the label’s polished Emirati sportswear, showcasing craftsmanship and elegance.
Overall, the opening of London Fashion Week demonstrated the industry’s growing dedication to eco-responsibility and humanitarian causes. These collections showcased a refreshing perspective on fashion, highlighting the role it can play in creating a better and more sustainable future for all.
Useful links:
1. The Magpie Project
2. Auroboros
