SS11 Press Days: Forward PR

On Monday I attended the Forward PR press day held at the newly  re-opened Savoy Hotel, after a three year refurbishment project. As always Forward PR's client list read like a who's who in ethical and sustainable fashion. Unfortunately as I was running late (what's new?!) I didn't get the chance to check out the other brands/ agencies on display, however I was pleased that I was able to catch up with Nicola of Beautiful Soul. With a strict no-wastage policy that sees all of the fabric remnants put to good use, Beautiful Soul create timeless womenswear from vintage Japanese kimonos - recently launching a debut menswear collection.

 

Another label I enjoyed seeing was Ciel who for SS11 have produced some eye-catching nature-inspired digital prints on silk in rich blues and exotic earth tones. My favourite piece has to be the gorgeous knickers, below.

For the second time round I saw the brand, Magenta 8 who specialise in tailored capes, jackets and shrugs made from baby alpaca wool. My favourite garment from this season's collection is the bolero, pictured below left.

Another great eco-friendly brand on display was S.C Vizcarra, who is a family-run handwoven luxury handbag and accessories manufacturer. I especially liked the little clutch bags on display for next summer.

 Lastly I was introduced to the work of Rebecca Cella who makes exquisite hand-knitted dresses which feature delicate chain detailing and Swarovski crystals. I particularly liked the backless dress at the bottom - the perfect red carpet number.

SS11 Press Days: Escada

And so its come to that rather lovely time of the fashion season when press days dominate my diary and whilst I'm looking at gorgeous clothing for next summer the clocks are about to go back for winter. To keep the winter blues at bay stick around for lots of press day action this weekend into next month.

To get myself off the ground I went to Forward PR's press day at The Savoy on Monday, but more about that later in the week. Today I went to see the international luxury label Escada and was really impressed with the collection up close, not having been to their showroom previously.

Loosely inspired by Africa, the colour palette of the mainline SS11 collection oozes earth, ocean and forest hues and is the perfect blend of practicality, edginess and sophistication. Favourite garments include the knock out dresses and the more laid back khaki jumpsuit (see below).

I also really like the soft leather jacket (below) which has a zip detail around the waist that can turn the garment from a long coat into a jacket - ideal for trans-seasonal weather!

As one should expect from a renowned continental luxury brand there are a few glitzy numbers in the form of embellished jackets and evening tops, as seen below.

Loved the primary coloured accessories too!

 

On The Escada Sport side of the label are cute dresses in colour popping shades and textures including laser-cut leather.