Students at this year’s London College of Fashion showcase demonstrated a masterful ability to produce clothes that are both creative and commercially viable.
At a star-studded show in Shoreditch, with actress Maisie Williams and Whistles CEO Jane Shepherdson in the crowd, 26 graduates presented their debut collections with the night’s most accessible designs coming out on top. One such collection by womenswear designer Victoria Smith won praise from the panel of industry experts, which included college head Frances Corner, for her sophisticated silhouette and vivid use of colour.
Taking home the coveted Collection of the Year award, Smith’s offering, which featured embroidery details from fellow student Hae-Na Kim, included billowing bubble-hem gowns and tailored coats with bell sleeves, while organza smock tops and wide-leg culottes came in bold colour combinations of lemon and turquoise, fuchsia and cobalt.
Also receiving recognition was a collaboration by designers Sofia Ilomen and Jinhee Moon which clinched the Directional Colour and Textiles Award for their use of complex layering, with lamé peplums, ruffle shorts and teddy bear fleece jumpers combined to great effect.
Another stand-out collection came from Marta Cesaro who, with knitwear designer Shasha Wong, presented stunning circle skirts and huge hats.
Duo Fiona Barnes and Lauren Pilgreen sent out floor-sweeping silk dresses and intricate headpieces by Nicole Paskauskas crafted from rope and synthetic hair.
