Fashion Across The Pond: The 1970s Takeover at London Fashion Week
This article was originally published on Smashd.co on September 28, 2015.
Splashed across London’s runways in a variety of different patterns and palettes, designer collections such as Daks, Fyodor Golan, Jean-Pierre Braganza, Topshop Unique, Burberry Prorsum, Jasper Conran and Sophia Webster all confirmed one thing: jumpsuits, sheer fabrics, metallics, plunging necklines, platform shoes and asymmetrical hemlines are all “in” for Spring 2016.
Being that the forecasted trends are all carry-overs from last Spring’s obsession with 1970’s style – and that off-the-shoulder tops, fringe and suede were all the rage at New York Fashion Week (Ohne Titel, Prabal Gurung, Proenza Schouler, J. Crew) – it’s probably safe to say that the fashion world’s ongoing infatuation with bohemianism, hedonism and Studio 54 glam is not over.
Daks:
Incorporating varying shades of gray, steel blue, silver and caramel into their collection, Daks’ featured a number of plunging neckline designs, as well as another well-known 70’s style element – the neck-tie blouse/ dress.
Pantsuits and maxi dresses with a sophisticated, posh twist ushered the 70’s into the now, while suede, sheer fabrics and shiny metallics once again paid homage to days gone past.
Fyodor Golan:
Similarly, and also taking inspiration from the era of the hour, Fyodor Golan’s models sashayed out in a whirl of 70’s poshness – rocking everything from fringe, sheer, metallics, asymmetrical hemlines, plunging necklines, platform shoes and dangling earrings.
From metallic tops to fringe-adorned dresses, and see-through skirts with colorful flowers, Fyodar Golan’s collection may just be the funkiest and most futuristic 70’s reincarnation we’ve seen thus far.
Topshop Unique:
Heavily infused with polka dot, leopard and floral prints, Topshop Unique’s designer collection paired sheer tops with delicate ruffles, and plunging necklines with flowing, billowy sleeves. Loose-fitting knit sweaters and vests added a laidback flair daytime activities, and blazers, faux fur stoles and trench coats converted the same looks from casual to workplace and evening compatible.
Jean-Pierre Braganza:
By combining bright yellow, blue and red color blocks with asymmetrical necklines, hemlines and sleeves, Jean-Pierre Braganza’s collection was the most eye-catching display of the modern 70’s infusion at London Fashion Week. Although not exactly “tie-dyed,” the designer’s use of a multicolored, psychedelic print issued a subtle nod to the period, and bold, geometric patterns further complimented off-the-shoulder and plunge neckline dresses.
Burberry Prorsum:
Heavily featuring lacy peek-a-boo paneling and lingerie-inspired, sheer dresses worn with leotards, Burberry Prorsum added neo goth elements such as velvet, capes and leather biker jackets to their take on 70’s fashion.
Large silver buckles, another aspect of neo goth, were featured prominently on backpacks and jackets, while chain links decorated purses and sandals.
Jasper Conran:
Billowing dresses were a huge staple in Jasper Conran’s Spring 2016 collection – offering new takes on 70’s maxi dresses with sheer over-layers. Sequins and jumpsuits then rounded out the British designer’s presentation for a slight play on the season’s hottest, upcoming trend.
Image Credit: Brittany Bella Graham (Sophia Webster installation)
Sophia Webster – “Mermaid Launderette:”
Hosted inside London’s The Hospital Club, designer Sophia Webster’s under-the-sea installation took visitors on an ethereal journey into a mermaid underworld – complete with large-scale seashells, oysters, pearls, 70’s style one-piece swimsuits and a special performance by English singer, Katy B.
Modeled after the “vibrancy of underwater life,” Webster said that during a visit to California earlier in the year, she was inspired during a road trip down the coast – from San Francisco to Santa Barbara – and listed Carmel-by-the-Sea as one of her favorite beach destinations.
Her collection of shoes, which ranged from sandals to platform heels and heeled gladiators, came in a stunning array of bright, psychedelic colors – invoking images of 1970’s California surfer culture – and were complimented by sparkly, box clutches in a variety of different patterns.
How to Incorporate 70’s Style Trends into Your Wardrobe:
The good thing about this season’s nostalgic 70’s invasion is that with multiple, available style options, each trend can be easily incorporated into an everyday wardrobe in a variety of simple ways. You don’t have to look like you’ve fallen into a time warp to fit in; all you have to do is pick one that works for you.
1) Metallics:
When adding shiny metallics to your outfit, either go bold or go subtle. Pair metallics with a bright print for something edgier, or with a simple solid color for a more toned down look.
2) Plunging Necklines:
Wear a low bra or go au naturel when deciding upon a plunging neckline. If you want something a bit more secure without the use of a bra, use double sided tape to keep the fabric in place. No nip slips!
3) Sheer Fabrics:
If you’re wearing something sheer, it’s best to wear something underneath (i.e. a leotard or the like) that’s the same color as the fabric. For instance, a black sheer top would look best paired with a black bra top as opposed to a white bra.
4) Platform Shoes:
Platform shoes can be worn with socks on colder days or bare when it’s warmer. Utilize color block techniques for best results with socks.
If London Fashion Week has proven anything, it’s that the 70’s are alive and vibrant, and ready to be re-conceptualized and re-experienced by a new generation in a variety of new, innovative ways. No matter your cup of tea, there’s something suitable for everyone.