London Fashion Week 2024 was a spectacle of innovation and creativity. This season, renowned designers showcased their latest collections, setting trends for the fashion world. Highlights from the week include dramatic presentations and fresh perspectives.
Jawara Alleyne’s Bold Showcase
Jawara Alleyne, a designer celebrated for his fearless approach, electrified audiences with his collection inspired by Caribbean and London subcultures. The show, bathed in red lighting, featured models adorned with fabrics punctuated by safety pins, carrying unique props such as driftwood and brass instruments.
Alleyne’s vision channelled a ‘dare to be different’ spirit, as articulated in his reflection, “I’ve always been inspired by a ‘dare to be different’ attitude and I wanted this collection to reflect individuals who have inspired me to find my way of doing things.”
Knwls: A Return to School
Knwls transported attendees to an academic setting, recreating the ambiance of the Central Saint Martins’ campus. Models donned the brand’s iconic leather and corsetry, juxtaposed with sheer, floral dresses, creating an elevated aesthetic.
This collection also showcased fascinator hats and a final bridal gown, marking a maturity in the signature style, making the Knwls girl appear more refined and grown-up.
Marques’Almeida’s Historical Inspirations
Marques’Almeida presented a collection influenced by 17th-century Dutch portraits.
Their designs, showcased in St Paul’s Church, combined raw hem denim with floral brocades, and structural jackets, blending historical influences with modern sensibilities in fashion.
The collection embraced an aesthetic described as “fiercely contemporary, raw, and unapologetically subversive”, with ruffles, corsets, and modern denim elements.
Edeline Lee’s Debut on the Catwalk
Edeline Lee’s first catwalk for her eponymous label at London Fashion Week marked a significant milestone. The show depicted practical, chic designs fitting for women of stature in public life.
Models performed everyday activities like walking dogs or reading, with the launch of the children’s line enhancing the brand’s familial appeal.
The collection, having been favoured by figures like Angela Rayner, added to its reputation for balancing elegance with functionality.
Ashley Williams and the Modern Girl’s Dichotomy
Ashley Williams continued to explore femininity with SS25, presented off-schedule in an intimate venue, fashioning blonde wigs with hidden fringes and florally adorned accessories.
Darker elements emerged through motifs like ‘Happiest Girl In The World’ paired with gun imagery, echoing a juxtaposition of innocence and stark reality.
This collection’s use of manga and playful, yet daring elements, further solidified Williams’ skill in portraying the complexities of modern femininity.
Richard Quinn’s Opulent Affair
Richard Quinn’s show at The Dorchester Hotel was a grand spectacle with an elegant host of previous Quinn designs worn by guests.
Models paraded against an orchid flower wall, complemented by classical music renditions, showcasing Quinn’s dedication to opulence.
A bridal look made entirely of silver beads highlighted the show’s culmination in true Quinn style.
Labrum’s Cultural Narrative at Emirates Stadium
Labrum chose the iconic Emirates Stadium for its SS25 collection showcase, embracing its football association with Arsenal.
With founder Foday Dumbaya’s roots influencing the ‘Designed by an immigrant’ ethos, the collection blended strong tailoring with West African motifs.
Customised designs, including a collaboration with Adidas on an updated version of the Superstar sneaker, highlighted the brand’s commitment to cultural storytelling.
London Fashion Week 2024 was a testament to the evolving dynamics of the fashion industry, where tradition meets innovation. Emerging trends were defined by a blend of heritage influences with a modern twist, making it a memorable season for attendees.
