Ryan LO spring/summer 2019 collection catwalk show for LFW

Ryan Lo presented a spellbinding show at Stationer’s Hall Court with his floaty and mystical spring/summer 2019 collection Saturn Returns, recounting a classic fairytale romance. 

Magic abounded from the get-go as the models entered adorned with witches hats, twisted brooms and pumpkin-shaped bags, their accessories hailing the arrival of fashion’s very own Fairy Godmother.

Sure enough, beneath the brims delicate dresses fluttered down the catwalk, blossoming with watercolour prints and playful polka dots. Frills aplenty added volume to many of the items, along with puffed out sleeves which alluded to Cinderella’s iconic princess dress.

Bows were another prominent feature throughout the collection, both at the shoulders and tied up at the waistband to highlight a slim bodice. Buttons created a perpendicular line down many items, with high necklines and ruffled hems giving them a young, childhood feel.

Lo layered the collection with light and translucent materials, adding texture through oversized crochet and ostrich feathers. Along with the pastel colours of much of the collection, these materials gave the pieces an airy feel. However, some bold white/black contrasts, large headdresses and vivid heeled boots with pointed toes gave the collection a sharp and daring edge.

Lo’s feminine fairytale collection was reminiscent of every young girl’s childhood fantasy, and as the literal knight in shining armour on the catwalk testified, if the designer has anything to say about it, come the spring, all of us will go to the ball.

Rosamund Kelby
Photos: Huw Jenkins