Isa Arfen spring/summer 2018 collection presentation for LFW

The setting for Isa Arfen’s spring/summer 2018 presentation was based on the Japanese island of Naoshima – peaceful, serene and mystical. 

Inspiration was drawn from a series of black and white photographs by Eikoh Hosoe, which depict improvisational dance performances in a farming village, creating a sense of freedom and movement within the designs. Wispy fabrics, such as ramie muslin, gave ruffle-trimmed wrap skirts and shirt dresses a weightless feel. 

Contrast was at the heart of the collection. The meditative mood was enlivened by the brand’s signature playfulness; flirty mini dresses, knotted jersey bodysuits and iridescent cotton trench coats echoed a sense of spontaneity. Meanwhile, a lightweight gabardine, created in burnt orange, deep blue and chalk white, brought utilitarian workwear to mind.

A feminine magnolia pattern recurred throughout, in the form of monochrome jacquard and hand-drawn on crisp cotton poplin, washed silk and chiffon.

Rebekah Absalom
Photos:  Krish Nagari