A recap of trends based on London Fashion Week Spring/Summer fashion shows. 

A good way to assess incoming trends is by following fashion week/s. A few weeks ago, New York Fashion Week gave us an insight into what it means to be comfortable. Now, London Fashion Week gives us a diverse selection of shows and these are some of the trends that we predict will carry on in a few months.

Fabric Manipulation and Texture

The rise of crocheting and knitting has become more apparent in the last 18 months. When boredom strikes, creativity arises. This is evident when designer Chet Lo released his knitwear collection through Fashion East’s SS show. Lo claimed in an interview that he came about this particular spiky aesthetic during the quarantine period. Models were fitted head-to-toe in Lo’s unique take on knitting. On the other hand, designer Matty Bovan adapted traditional crochet patchwork and reinvented it in new forms of party dresses and ball gowns. 

Achieving textures in clothing is not only exclusive to these two techniques. Richard Malone’s spring RTW collection closely resembles that of a scrunchie (yes, the hair tie). The circular ruffle pattern was inspired by his grandmother’s scrunchies in the 70s. This elaborate craftsmanship along with his draping expertise was the focal point of the show. Even more so, he closed the show with models walking down the runway in enormous draperies hung on what seemed like curtain rods. Perfect for the grandmother vibe he was trying to achieve. 

The Power of Sleeves and Collars

Power dressing through shoulder pads and popped collars are not going anywhere just yet. In fact, it will only get bigger and bolder. Rejina Pyo featured cotton dresses with large sailor collars, and Simone Rocha’s romantic goth collection was equipped with oversized point collars that go beyond the waist and sleeves that are so long, it might as well be considered as a cape. 

In Motion

There was no shyness of movement during LFW. This could be from the way the collections were presented like Roksanda’s “Women in Motion” collection where clothes came alive through dance or how Halpern’s collection in collaboration with the Royal Opera House explored the study of movement and restriction through clothing. Movement can also be found in silhouettes. As a designer and a new mom,  Molly Goddard’s take on jeans is more loose and less waist-hugging– ideal for anyone who’s always moving. 

Published by HOLR Magazine.