Sneak Peek: Elise Machnik

Last Thursday afternoon I was invited along to the preview of British fashion brand Elise Machnik’s AW11 collection showcased at private members club, Morton’s. Getting in there just as the international fashion weeks kick off, for me at least it feels slightly strange looking at and writing about beautiful clothes that won’t be available for another year, but alas it’s the nature of the job and affords us all a sneak peek of what sartorial delights we should start saving for.

Founded by award winning creative director Kiley Evans and chief executive Steffan Hywel Jones, the ready-to-wear collection is a bold cacophony of digital silk prints in iridescent blues juxtaposed with several elegant couture gowns reminiscent of the Victoriana/ Gothic trends of a couple of years back.

With intriguing shapes, in-built bodices, floor-sweeping hemlines and intricate beading, the attention to detail displayed was second to none, reflecting Evans’ stints at established brands such as Julien MacDonald.

Original, quirky and cut with conviction, Elise Machnik is a brand to keep an eye on in 2011.

AW10 Press Days: Part Five B

At the Relative Mo press day last week I fell head over heels in love with Louise Goldin's AW10 collection. I loved the padding effect, especially in leather - amazing!

 

I didn't think I was really that big a fan of Julien Macdonald as I've found his last few collections a bit hit and miss, but hoorah... this collection I love. I really liked the equestrian inspired jackets and the uber chunky knits, with my favourite pieces being the knitted string vest tops.

A new designer to me was Duro Olowu, whose prints were to die for. I enjoyed every piece in he collection, especially how all of the prints clashed so majorly - exactly my kind of styling!

As reported during LFW, Orla Kiely's AW10 collection was simply divine. For the upcoming season there were luxurious and overtly feminine pieces a plenty. I loved the buttoned-down understated feel of the collection - right up my street!

Great boots from the master that is Galliano. I especially liked his take on the brother creeper, and I'm certain these knee-highs will be on every celebrity worth their salt in the coming months.

DIOR 

 

For me Nathan Jenden's collection was one of the best showcased at the Relative Mo press day! I absolutely adored this bright dress embellished with plectrums - so original and creative. I'm very much looking forward to calling this in for photoshoots in the coming months.

Yet another designer whom I wasn't too familiar with was Aitor Throup, but I loved the way in which he displayed his collections very simply, utilizing the rails available, but setting his collection apart wonderfully.