The world’s smallest catwalk: Harumika and River Island collaboration

Last night at the Soho hotel, we were intrigued to discover the anticipated world’s smallest catwalk. A collaboration with arts and crafts brand Harumika and River Island’s Chelsea girl caught our immediate attention from the outset. 

The launch was to showcase the Chelsea girl autumn/winter 2012 collection but in miniature form, using Harumika dress forms. Both an innovative and unusual way of exhibiting the collection and we absolutely loved it.

We sat at the front row and watched the ten mini mannequins strut their stuff around the rotating catwalk. Being given mini ice creams, macaroons and champagne, we were in awe of how professional and accurate the designs were. Christina Walton, a fashion graduate designer was the lucky woman to create these adorable mini designs. It took two weeks to complete them and the outfits were made using the exact same fabric and intricate design as the full sized collection. With the life-size versions also dotted around the room, it was great to flick our heads back and forth between the two and realise the uncanny appearance, design and structure of the garments. 

The outcome of the collaboration was fantastic, as Chelsea girl incorporated the youthful and creative qualities of Harumika, while portraying its own quirky and retro-inspired collection.

The collection included a fluffy white jumper dress with the sweetest silver sequined satchel bag, bomber jackets in tapestry and faux fur, leopard print shirt dresses, crochet maxi skirts and black lace maxi dresses. The tapestry skater dress and metallic draped dress were amongst the favourites of the guests.  It’s safe to say we are going to see a lot of fluffy jumpers, metallic and print fly off of the River Island shelves this season. Some of the collection is already in River Island stores and the remaining garments will be in shops come November. 

The evening was successful, with everyone being utterly wowed by the miniature garments. It was a great way to combine both brands and create a new way of design for young people. It will help encourage the generation of up-and-coming designers and fashionistas to be able to create designs simply and inexpensively.  We even got a goody bag with our own design kit from Harumika. Now if you’ll excuse us, we are off to create our own mini fashion show! 

Bethan Williams