LFW – J. JS Lee S/S 2014 collection

The creativity seen at day one of London Fashion Week at Somerset House was so inspiring; we hardly even noticed the constant mist of rain coming from all directions.  It was quite a wet morning and the shows were predictably running behind schedule, but we didn’t mind.  A few extra minutes people watching in the rain never hurt anyone. 

On to the Jackie JS Lee show, where top blogger and total girl crush Susie Lau of Style Bubble was seated front row.  The collection was inspired by the ever-changing colours and free movement of the iridescent jellyfish. Its structure, both fluid and luminous, translated effortlessly throughout the collection of relaxed sports-luxe and minimalist tailoring.  Wax coated embellishments and waterproof Airtex reflected the lights of camera flashes, bringing life to the otherwise static fabric.  The silhouette was kept rather feminine, in aquarium hues of blue, salmon pink and neutrals.  Bold geometric printed knitwear and gingham were some of the most prominent aesthetics presented, but we must admit, this collection was all about the underwater textures.  

The Korean-born Newgen designer Jackie JS Lee graduated from Central St Martins MA in 2010 and went on to receive the Harrods Award for her graduate collection of muted neutrals and structured tailoring. So her S/S 2014 collection delightfully surprised us with more colour than expected.  Best known for her minimalist design and modernist tailoring, Lee’s signature pieces flirt with androgyny, and are valued by their wearability. 

Christianna Pugliese

Photos: Alessio Paratore