LFW – Orla Kiely shows AW 2012 collection

Orla Kiely’s invitation to an Afternoon Tea Dance is exactly what you could have imagined and yet so much more. The whole of Friday afternoon in the Portico Rooms of Somerset House was dedicated to a stunning 30/40s traditional tea party style. Inspiration for her Autumn/Winter 2012 collection came from the film ‘To Sir, With Love’ which took ideas for school and preppy detailing.

On entrance, you realise you are in for an absolute treat: teacups and miniature sponge cakes, vintage lampshades and a live band. Attention to detail for this event was perfection. From the perfectly positioned bourbon biscuits on white doilies and silver china to the dominant gold disco ball in the centre of the room, it really was an indulgence into heaven.

Believe it or not, the presentation somehow managed to get better. Orla Kiely’s collection of clothing was represented through beautiful model dancers, with a delight of dashing men in suits taking such ladies ballroom dancing. Delicate nudes and creams became dominant through shift shirts and pleated dresses, simple t-bar dolly shoes with shimmering gold socks and frilled floral pieces were all pleasing to the eye. There were Peter Pan collars and ruffled sleeves complementing effortless buttoned dresses, oozing shades of purple and red into the collection. Additions of materials, such as leather, broke away from the initial feel, but were brought back into a more comfortable line for Orla with an adorable fox print buttoned dress.

This has to be my favourite presentation of the day for simply capturing everything I love all in one room. It was simply dreamy.

Kellie Griffiths

 

Watch Orla Kiely’s AW 2012 presentation here