If there are still any skeptics out there about the power of
Asian designers, this London Fashion Week (LFW) has come to prove them wrong.
Just looking at the schedules – both the main and the fashion
scout one which is designated for emerging talent – shows you the sheer amount
of Asian-born designers who are making it big and are on the rise to dominate
the fashion soon really soon.
From names who have earned their spot in the main lineup like
Jackie Lee and Eudon Choi – the winner of last year’s Emerging Talent Award at
the Global Fashion Awards in New York – to more recently spotted designers like
Nova Chiu.
On top of that are those who have a bit more excitement around
them. The lucky few who have been billed by those in the know as the ones to watch:
Patrick Li and Yeashin. And these are just the ones showing in the first two
days!
Most of these designers have done their studies in London’s
prestigious fashion schools and decided to stay afterwards as the city - which
is known as the edgiest major fashion arena with a great underground scene - offers
them the best opportunity to be noticed and make it big.
And if you wonder about the LFW effect. It really is
magical. The shows are all packed. I hardly made it to one (partly my fault as I
left it too late to ask!) but had the opportunity to speak with some of the
other designers’ representatives who promised me a interview after all the
fashion weeks madness is gone.
P.S. In order to keep this post at readable length I will
include only one review today and post the rest daily starting tomorrow!
Eudon Choi
The most anticipated of these shows was that of Eudon Choi on
day one. And the Korean-born designer didn’t disappoint. It actually came more
of a surprise, as it was so fresh and inspiring.
Choi who is known for his impeccable
tailoring and blending of masculine cuts with feminine touch (his background is
in menswear) has departed partly from the more edgy and geometric to bring us
some soft lines and details – influenced by Russian folklore dressing. The
whole collection looked romantic but sophisticated true to the inspiration
behind it which is David Lean’s film Doctor Zhivago.
I loved how culturally-rich, artistic yet wearable this
collection looked. From the beautiful brocade mid-length skirts to stunning
embroidery-like details which popped out like 3D flowers but in a much more
sophisticated style. For this particular technique, the designer has worked
with Swarovski on developing a special embellishment called ‘Crystal Rocks’
which added that extra luxury touch to the ensembles.
Leather was also featured – although much less than previous
collections – in form of jackets which once teamed with the softer pieces gave
a complete and unique look.
Here are some of my favourite looks from the collection. Can’t
wait to see more from Eudon Choi!!!
Keep reading over the next week or so for more on the Asian
invasion of London Fashion Week.
