Emma J Shipley
It's that time of year - fashion season has dawned upon us once again! Although we are showing our new collection in Paris rather than London this season, we were still kept busy on home turf launching collaborations, attending shows and visiting other talented designers. Consider this to be a diary entry - a day in the life of us here at EJS during London Fashion Week...
First on our busy schedule was attending the Aspinal of London SS17 presentation at Claridge's, the iconic art deco luxury hotel. En route to the show, we passed the flagship Brook Street store, and popped in to discover the recently launched Aspinal x EJS Pegasus collection. The bags, scarves and clutches look great in this wonderful store - and they're selling fast! So be sure to browse them in-store or shop the collection online here.
After a thorough look at the Pegasus collection, we made it to Claridge's. Upon entering the hotel, an overwhelming sweet floral scent hit our nostrils with delight. And it was soon clear why - the entrance was an enormous tunnel-like structure of pink flowers; a perfect representation of Aspinal's spring/summer collection. And what was at the end of the tunnel? The stunning presentation...
"Staying true to their British roots, the room was furnished with typically London decor; albeit with an Aspinal twist"
The presentation itself was incredibly varied and a visual delight! Staying true to their British roots, the room was furnished with typically London decor; albeit with an Aspinal twist. A pink telephone box-come-photo-booth, a baby blue Aspinal branded postbox, and a waiter serving tea and miniature cakes. These additions perfectly complimented the collection - a range of timeless, elegant bags in pastel hues. A Notting Hill-inspired street even featured, with little houses and miniature windows to show off the stunning bags. On the purpose built stage is where we found Mariya Dykalo, the creative director, along with Aspinal's collaboration with Michelle Dockery on bags and Robin-inspired scarves which Emma illustrated. The presentation was bold and and beautiful, in colour, scent and style!
After dragging ourselves away from the delicious cakes and drinks at the Aspinal presentation, we made it to the London Fashion Week designer showrooms. This prestigious showcase is at Brewer Street Car Park - renovated for the week to extremely high standards with an urban, edgy feel. We strolled around the stands visiting friendly faces and new designers, taking in the amazing quality and varied work by each brand. A few of our favourite brands were The Season Hats and Harvy Santos; both milliners, creating beautifully unique headwear. Unfortunately, we didn't have time to visit the Maybelline makeover concession - maybe next time!
A highlight at every London Fashion Week is checking out the Topshop's 'Newgen' - a celebration of emerging talent championed by the British Fashion Council. Newgen has proven to be a launch platform for many young, bright designers, and it was a pleasure to be able to see what's to come. Firm favourites of ours were the stunning designs by Sadie Williams and Molly Goddard - don't forget these names!
So, although this was only one day, you can see that Fashion Week is an extremely active and jam-packed time! And we don't plan on relaxing just yet - Paris Fashion Week is well underway, and you can follow our Parisian adventures on Twitter and Instagram.
