Worldly; In a Whirl

The far-east has always been a source of both mystery and exoticism ever since Imperial Europe gained the power to sail the seas and explore new and uncharted territories. Hundreds of years have passed since he sumptuous textiles of the silk road, and the allure of Madame Butterfly captivated the imaginations of the West – and yet the Far East is still an ideal of escapism. In fashion, these eastern influences make recurring appearances every couple of years, as it seems the proverbial “otherness” of eastern dress still captivates to this day.

This season, a new wave of orientalism has once again hit the runways of our beloved fashion capitals, albeit one that has taken a less decorative route than its predecessor. This eastern wave is centred on the movement of fabrics, rather than their embellishment. Eastern fashion has historically been the anti-thesis of tailoring; focusing on the beauty of the fabric itself rather than the construction surrounding it. We see Kabuki inspired robes from Peter Pilotto, Isa Arfen, and Alberta Ferreti. There are also the brightly coloured kimonos from Huda and Camilla, which highlight the beautiful floral patterns traditionally worn by young women in Japan during summer seasons. Loewe took us on journey of self discovery and featured a hybrid of Tibetan/Zori inspired platform sandals; while Furla took inspiration from calligraphy and reimagined their logo for their latest collection —  a call back to the subversive influence of Asian style in pop culture today. An influence that, while forever represents otherness, is one that is fully embraced by London fashion.

1. White Bag by Wicker Wings https://wickerwings.com/
2. Floral Abaya by Huda at The Modist https://www.themodist.com/en/
3. Serpent Trace Necklace by Shaun Leane https://shaunleane.com/
4. Polar L Tote Bag by Furla https://www.furla.com/gb/en
5. Gray Trainers by Furla https://www.furla.com/gb/en
6. Burgundy Cashmere Robe by Theory https://www.theory.com/
7. Blue skirt by Xu Zhi at Dover Street Market https://london.doverstreetmarket.com/
8. Green Earrings by Les Georgettes http://www.lesgeorgettes.com/gb/
9. Navy Kaftan by Georgia Hardinge https://www.georgiahardinge.co.uk/
10. Rose Gold Vermeil Earrings by Shaun Leane https://shaunleane.com/
11. Black blazer by Alberta Ferreti at The Modist https://www.themodist.com/en/
12. Green Bag by Cult Gaia at The Modist https://www.themodist.com/en/
13. Black Pouch by Loewe https://www.loewe.com/eur/en/home
14. Yellow Velvet Kimono by Eskandar at The Modist https://www.themodist.com/en/
15. Dragon Necklace by Patcharavipa http://www.patcharavipa.com/
16. Sandals by Loewe https://www.loewe.com/eur/en/home
17. Bomber M Bag by Furla https://www.furla.com/gb/en
18. Silk Robe by Camilla http://www.camilla.com/uk/