Ones to Watch spring/summer 2018 collection catwalk show for LFW

After winning Fashion Scout’s One to Watch competition, Neo Design, Ji Won Choi, Triinu Pungits and Starsica collaboratively debuted their showcase for the first time. Each collection shares indistinguishable themes that run throughout, counting a dystopian-meets-fantasy theme paired with electronic music, which varies from techno in Ji Won Choi to a custom merry-go-round theme tune for Starsica. The collections all provided asymmetric avant-garde looks with models sporting white eyeliner or warrior-style exaggerated pink eye-shadow and sleek hair, to avoid distraction from the looks they were wearing.

Neo Design opened the show delivering a heavy influence on a DIY aesthetic which almost pays homage to Commes Des Garcon’s famous over-sized silhouettes. Presenting an emphasis on hole detailing and ropes dangling down from the shoulders of garments, Neo Design really captures an army preparing for war.

Following Neo Design was Ji Won Choi’s genderless collection. Using block-colours such as cherry red and sky blue on their draped capes and oversized coats paired with vertical white stripes. Choi alters her collections to be accessible all year round and therefore being seasonless in colours.

A significant theme throughout Triinu Pungits’ collection was the recurrence of arms. With handmade foam arms thrown across model’s bodies and sewn into skirts, the designer certainly expressed a “mind and body” theme. Additionally, Pungits unveils an array of geometrically-printed sweaters paired with hot pants in between foam arm looks.

Starsica closed the show with a child-like display of a space fairground. With models parading down the catwalk with miniature horse statues on the top of their caps and spaceship cut-outs embroidered onto dresses, the frilly affair was definitely the most playful out of the four collections. Using neon colours such as fuscia pink and faux grass green bags, the models also donned the reoccurring eye motif plastered all over their faces.

It is apparent that these emerging designers have no fear when it comes to taking risks and being innovative in a choice of fabrics and detailing. Following the success of the showcase, there is no doubt that they are set to follow in the famous footsteps of previous Fashion Scout winners such as Phoebe English and Eudon Choi.

Millie Ryan 
Photos: Krish Nagari