Fun Affair spring/summer 2017 collection catwalk show for LFW

Fun Affair spring/summer 2017 collection catwalk show | LFW

20^th September 2016

Grace Cain

Shot by Erol Birsen

Grace Cain Shot by Erol Birsen

20 September 2016

Designer Xi Zhu, the woman behind Fun Affair, is on a mission to manifest “extreme beauty” informed by surrealistic and metaphysical concepts of mystery and power. Shown as part of Fashion Scout for London Fashion Week, Zhu’s spring 2017 collection, Girls Grow Up, took inspiration from the New Romantics, 80s power dressing and postmodernism.

These latest designs took a playful approach to the expected ideas of forms and proportions. The result: an edgy yet sophisticated collection, and a celebration of women’s strength and rebelliousness.

The colour palette was bold and striking, primarily monochrome with the occasional burst of blue or shocking pink. Oversized bow-knot shirting in crisp white had a slouchy, masculine appeal when paired with high-waisted black trousers.

Elsewhere, flouncy dresses with fluid silhouettes were infused with feminine fun thanks to ruffled details and cut-outs at the shoulders or elbows. A particular highlight was a white mid-length dress with beautifully intricate lace back and sleeves, and a black flurry of fabric at the bodice adding a sharply contrasting detail. This theme of the ruffle continued into floating, tiered skirts as well as pencil designs that kicked out at the hem.

Some of the most memorable designs were covered with a bold print featuring the name Fun Affair in bold, black lettering. On the white base of a sleek peplum skirt, or on a long coat and matching flared trousers, this striking pattern tapped into Zhu’s interest in the kitsch and the postmodern.