LFW – Shao Yen AW 2012 presentation

The Vauxhall Fashion Scout was the perfect location to display Shao Yen’s AW 2012 collection. Taking a completely different approach to his display, the designer had an hour dedicated to his designs and it was well worth the time. On entrance, the extremely crowded room saw white singular platforms interrupted by black old-school television screens showing black and white film, one of which seemed to be backstage at Shao Yen. Each platform became witness to one model, who stood neutral and perfect and spectators looked on in sheer admiration of their beauty. The noise of the impressed spectators was broken by the solitary noise of a violin player, placed delicately upon a platform.

The collection was a look of gentle and pretty makeup, red lipstick and rose-coloured cheeks with an elegant sportswear twist. Tweed suits featuring ‘Prince of Wales’ check patterns, sharp blue fur around hoods and pocket tops, sleek black dresses with cut outs and mesh baseball caps. Footwear was contrasted between strappy-heeled sandals, crisp white tennis socks, and white Nike Air trainers.

One by one, the models would leave their platforms and return wearing another spectacular sporting combo. Blazers featured drawstrings; a striking fur coat made up of orange, blue, beige and black; an oversized grandad cardigan and maxi dresses with jumper sleeve arms. One piece featured a Y-shaped leather panel for the core of the body that was accompanied with different coloured fur arms and boyfriend-style tweed trousers. A special favourite saw Mongolian fur used to create a white skirt with a silk white drape flowing down the back of the outfit.

It could be seen from the popularity of the presentation how much Shao Yen’s collection was loved, and we can’t wait to pull out the sport chic look next season.

Kellie Griffiths