Jenny Packham autumn/winter 2017 collection catwalk show for NYFW

Jenny Packham’s autumn/winter catwalk show was entitled The Heritage Collection.  Rather than the heritage of her own brand, as the subtitle of the show said, it was “inspired by the idiosyncrasies and cliches that define the British identity.” Packham took a variety of these Britishisms and put her own spin on them creating a collection that managed to breathe fresh life into well worn-ideas.

Packham’s strong grasp on her brand aesthetic allowed her to show a range from the red-carpet gowns to graphic tees on the same runway without any feeling of dissonance.  As always, there were beautiful embellishments, this time resulting in one of the most delicate takes on punk with pearls instead of studs on the first look the hit the runway. Also part of the punk theme were motorcycle jackets that paired perfectly with Packham’s usually girly looks to give just the right amount of cool girl edge.

Unsurprisingly, the theme included lots of plaids given a very feminine Jenny Packham treatment. They were seen in long flowing gowns and lighter than air sheet variations as well as in a bedazzled with a swinging 60s silhouette. Playful prints on scarves and tee shirts injected the collection with little pops of delight in the form of some of England’s most recognisable symbols and were just the touches that were needed to tie the theme together.

As in seasons prior, Packham collaborated with Christian Louboutin to create custom shoes to go with her looks. The footwear ranged from punk fishnet stilettos to polished satin pumps reflecting the range of inspirations in the collection perfectly and giving the show that extra bit of polish that’s come to be expected from the designer.

Maggie Gillette
Photos: Stephanie Chang