Velvet Johnstone A/W 2012 collection

Last night at Shoreditch house, we were invited to have a sneak peak at the new Velvet Johnstone collection for A/W 2012.

In the “snug” room on the fifth floor we walked into the room with an already exciting atmosphere – two mannequins with retro blonde wigs were placed either side of a candle lit table. The first wearing an incredible floor length, sheer black dress and the other wearing a white, dreamlike dress. This immediately executed what Velvet Johnstone was about and we felt privileged to be witnessing these pieces first hand. 

On the wall a screen played the Velvet Johnstone “Contact” film. In collaboration with Jamie Noel this screening showcased the collection in an interesting and infectious way. It was visually pleasing and a great way to show how the clothes are worn and how the designer, Cheryl Stephenson would like them to be seen. 

Browsing through the rail of garments was like looking at the outfits for a science fiction film; wonderfully elaborate, quirky and unusual.  The pieces had a real 60s vibe and reminded me of The Fifth Element, both sharing the same class and innovative ideas.

It was meeting Cheryl, the lovely lady behind this label, and discovering that she likes to use unusual fabrics in different ways to create her unique statement pieces that made the evening extra special. Her favourite piece, a lovely black dress, combines natural fibres and silk to create a different and flattering silhouette. 

The collection represented two different elements. The black garments portrayed the abyss and the white garments outer space. These themes shined through, quite literally as some of the garments glowed in certain lights. These unusual features are what make her clothes so exciting and contemporary. 

Some of our favourite pieces overall were a black velvet crop bustier and high-waisted black pant shorts.  These were in keeping with the grunge trend at the moment, whilst staying true to her style and putting a twist on it. 

We also loved the bright red playsuit and would kill to wear it to our next party! It is needless to say that wearing one of these pieces would make you stand out in any crowd. 

Cheryl has also done her bit for charity, designing a stunning silver playsuit for Fashion Targets Breast Cancer, which sported the FTBC logo on the front and was another one of her imaginative pieces.

When we asked what the aim of her designs were Cheryl replied: “To make the woman wearing the piece feel fantastic. I love to see different people’s personalities come through when they’re wearing them. I like to see each person wearing the garment in a way I wouldn’t have imagined.” 

It is always nice to meet a designer that really cares about how their customer feels and gets a real thrill out of their work. It was a pleasure to meet Cheryl and it’s safe to say The Upcoming was really blown away by the fabulous and impeccable taste of the whole Velvet Johnstone collection. 

Bethan Williams