On the 8th of Feb, i caught the train to Manchester to review the Annual Manchester spring fashion show 2012. Although the weather outside was bloody freezing, the emerging fresh talent definitely took my mind off it. Several designers showcased their collections, displaying an eclectic mix of styles and designs.
Take a look at the next big things.
The show
FABRYAN
Inspired by the exotic flowers displayed at Kew Gardens, this collection fuses feminine elegance with urban glamour. Mixing luxury silks, ruffles and leather binding with a rich colour palette. Beautiful, just beautiful.
Huxton
Encapsulating the revival of the bohemian, the collection uses soft hues with bold daring prints capturing a free spirit. Dramatic silhouettes were created with a mix of maxi and mini dresses, pencil skirts and bell sleeved blouses. Free and fabulous.
KELLY BULL
“you can’t control me” – based on suppressed childhood memories and nightmares. A Shockingly powerful collection, as the models marched through in latex pieces. Manipulating fabrics creating textured and daring outlandish designs. I don’t know if it was the interesting textures, baby faced prints or the strong smell of latex, but for me, this was the most rememberable collections of the night.
CROSS CULTURE
Taking inspiration from all over the world, this collection fuses African prints and vibrant colours with Japanese contemporary art work. Style and comfort come together in this collection. Giving you a taste of cultural flavour.
LAUREN WROE
Runner up for the 2012 best emerging designer award. This forties and fifties inspired collection had pops of colour and delicate, sensuous designs. The whole collection illustrates Wroe’s conscious effort to reduce fabric waste producing a zero waste pattern cutting.
PRETTY DISTURBIA
The collection which screamed confidence! tutu skirts, cut out arms and printed t- shirts were presented with attitude. The girls were accessorised in punk head bandannas, long fingerless gloves and retro glasses. A sinister gothic twist with a sultry burlesque styling the kitch glamour. “To be disturbing but oh so pretty!”
VICTORIA ROSSO
A Nostalgic take on a modern collection. With a 60’s and 70’s theme, sporting sun and tea dresses, high waisted shorts in retro and vintage prints. Bringing the past to create a beautifully dressed future!
CRYSTAL PADMORE
Winner of best emerging designer 2012. The “Coincide” collection is all about reconnecting with the our planet. A contemporary twist on eco friendly designs. Earthly colour palettes with layering and intriguing panelling techniques, a beautifully constructed collection, demonstrating sustainable style!
THOM NEAL
Tradition goes modern, with this heritage based collection. Hosting tweeds, faux fur coats,ripstop nylon shirts paired with croc winklepickers. Thom Neal uses skill and attention creating jaw dropping pieces. Truly British with a contemporary twist.
RHIANNA PHILLIPS
Finishing with the ultra modern sassy collection. One of my personal favourites of the night. Digitally printed pieces with crystal and stud embellishments flooded the collection. Fantasy meets reality with the textured, exquisite experimental designs.
An amazing show, with raw and modern talent. Remember these names, as the designers are about to take Britain by storm!
Words and Photography Johanna Bras’
