Scurrying feet rush across the marble floor, while arms are piled high with bundles of clothes and hurried hands are busy touching the hair and faces of the beautiful.
Sillhouettes dash between the soft yellow light which glows from lightbulbs that fringe wide mirrors, reflecting stacks of coloured pallets of every hue, as brushes lie askew beneath them.
The murmur of voices grows louder and the room grows smaller; the excitement swelling like a flood.
I tiptoed and ducked through the chaos, snatching peeks at the sparkling dresses which flowed from the shoulders of tall women, who stood in line, at the ready.
A clap of hands interrupted my gazed and I was swiftly shooed outside.
Beyond a mirrored wall, the atmosphere fell to silence. Anticipation, as rows of awaiting spectators sat in darkness, wide-eyed with words spoken only in a hushed whisper.
Spotlights beamed down a concrete runway, a mere train platform in a previous life.
The curved glass wall rose up high, supported by its metal skeleton.
As I looked up I could see the reflection of both sides of the wall; on this side a tense and quiet darkness on the other, a twinkling humming of activity.
It was stunning.
Within moments loud music crashed over the silence, and the bassline made the glass shudder.
The first model stepped out, her stride strong making the chiffon fabric she wore billow behind her.
This was the scene at Richard Nicoll Spring/Summer 11 held at the old Waterloo Station in London, and I have to say his new collection is incredible.
Inspired by minimal glamour it culminated a in series of floaty feminine chiffon pieces, with a few touches of leather: evening-wear with an edge. I find this season to be much more womanly and sophisticated than his last, also more wearable, soon to be a favourite with the celebs I'm sure.
My own pictures above don't quite do the clothes justice: so below are some from the official website.
For a full video of the collection check out London Fashion Week TV http://www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/lfw_tv_video.aspx?id=2941
Next up was Peter Pilloto, one my favourite designers, the show was held again at the old station, however this time in the cool light of the morning. Although the Richard Nicoll show was stunning in the evening, as lights and movement reflected off the glass, the morning show had more of a sense of tranquility, emphasized by the mirrored art installation that canvassed the wall behind the runway. What's more, I could appreciate the venue more in the light of day, it's sheer magnitude, vast emptiness and light made much more of an impression.
Although admittedly, I prefer his previous collections, Pilotto's signature use of print and cut are always flattering and most importantly unique. This season he's sported the glam futuristic look as structured dresses met feminine fabrics and floral prints.
Again, check out the video if you would like to see the full show: http://www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/lfw_tv_video.aspx?id=2944
Apologies for the lateness of this post! But hope you enjoy the pics :) x
