Ashley Isham autumn/winter 2017 collection catwalk show for LFW

Ashley Isham’s autumn/winter 2017 collection was both an homage to his native Singapore and his chosen home of London. Expanding his men’s and womenswear repertoire, he sent an impressive number of outfits down the catwalk at Freemasons’ Hall.

The front row packed with devotees, Isham showed the slinky, elegant glamour he is known for, with an emphasis on luxurious fabrics such as silk, velvet and brocade. Fishtail dresses made for the red carpet took centre stage and were well complemented by playful, short silhouettes that showed the odd peplum and off-the-shoulder ruffles here and there.

Isham proposed a similar glamour for his menswear with clean, slim looks that oozed luxury. Silk shirts were paired with trousers in rich purple and shiny gold, with gold Icarus caps adding a whimsical character to the otherwise very grown-up looks. There were also silk kimonos with a tropical print, loosely tied at the waist.

That same tropical pattern continued for womenswear, buy accompanied by a less colourful but nevertheless striking black and gold star print. The silk and prints were grounded by sharp, multicoloured tailoring, hairy check coats and bomber jackets, as well as a few leather pieces, giving a definite nod to traditional British fabric.

The collection was well-rounded and coherent, but Isham undoubtedly excelled at those pieces that showcased his culturally rich heritage. Standout looks included velvet dresses in purple and orange with Singaporean motifs embroidered at neckline and waist, and an all-over embellished corseted mini dress that added an almost architectural element to collection.

Styled with gold, winged hats, gold glitter lips and ornamental earrings that were so large and heavy they had to be attached to headbands, the collection had an almost ceremonial element to it that was emphasised by the drums and opera music accompanying models.

Isham clearly left no wishes unfulfilled and his followers will undoubtedly be in awe of the designer’s work this season.

Teresa Kronung
Photos: Filippo L’Astorina

For further information about Ashley Isham visit here.