Amy Thomson autumn/winter 2018 collection presentation for LFW

Amy Thomson’s AW18 collection, entitled Chasin’ Dreams, contained an explosion of fuchsia and baby pink that embraced us as we entered the room. The energy surrounding the collection was also vibrant and gave a wondrous, playful feeling not only for this presentation but for the entire LFW, as this was the opening presentation.

Thomson referred to the energy she created as the “otherworldly feel”. The main looks included metallic leather jackets, faux fur coats with matching handbags and dresses adorned with ribbons, bows and frills.

We had a chance to speak with Thomson, who explained: “It’s all about the daunting question that we are all being asked: ‘What do you want to do when you grow up?’ I wanted for each model to represent a profession but seen from the children’s perspective.” For example, a hairdresser’s career is represented through a metallic baby pink dress which can be associated with a cutting cape, while the earrings would be replaced with hair cutting scissors. 

Amy Thomson aims to create an imaginary world reminiscent of a dream, where she can reveal her narratives through details. Many of these details acted as keys to decipher meanings behind an outfit; this is where headwear designer Katie Hamlett, who collaborated with Thomson for the AW18 collection, played a crucial role. The ponies, butterflies and ribbons featured on creations which matched faux leather patches spread all over the garments.

The designer confessed, “It is really important for me to tell a story and to connect with the audience on a personal level”. She managed to connect with the audience especially through the unique hand-drawn illustrations, which were at times hidden in the details or presented through large scale prints and motifs

Xenia Gherzan
Photos: Huw Jenkins