Modernist at the BFC tent and Fashion Week fatigue has inevitably set in. We've reached the last day and the mood couldn't be more different from opening Sunday. Like the final day of your hols we're all just ready to go home, make a cup of tea and watch Corrie. No pushing, no frantic running around and a distinct lack of posing and posturing, it was a nice way to end my LFW.
The duo got off to a solid start with Siouxie's 'Spellbound', prompting much footapping from quite a few of the crowd, as a series of hi-tech jersey, racer-back as racer-front creations were paraded in front of us. This was sportswear of the more glamorous variety, body-hugging layers, cut out panels and streamlined cuts. Fabrics followed the luxury hi-tech theme that shaped the collection; jersey, cotton gauze and the occasional flash of soft leather and organza. Colour was kept simple with various shades of grey paired with off-white and black-the only burst of bright seen in a multilayered lemon swimsuit
Often making an appearance underneath various revealing outfits-the stretch tubebra. An item of clothing that American Apparel have been pushing for quite some time, it worked surprisingly well in a more high-fashion context.
Bored with jeans, skinny, loose high-waisted or otherwise, it seemed the right time to rediscover the trouser so I’ve been interested to see what London has to offer for SS08. Modernist went with some straight-cut, flat front numbers, slightly loose around the leg, it seemed those pins were finally going to get a breather until leggings popped up and the holiday was over. Whatever your opinion on the ubiquitous leg bandage they just won’t go away. Of course, now they’ve turned into the more acceptable knit-legging, (a thicker hybrid of it’s lycra cousin). Modernist used them under dresses and long-length tops, introducing a high-waisted version (paired with a short blazer), at first sight a little unflattering they grew on me in a kind of ‘so ungainly it could work’ sort of way.
Dresses came in a variety of shapes and cuts; bib-fronted, dangerously low necklines, cut out side panels, tulip, full and slim skirts with lengths rarely making it past the knees. Pleats were present but felt a little forced, attached to skirts and sleeves as embellishment, I wasn’t a fan. Highlights were the all black tulip dress layered over a gorgeous sheer cotton patchwork top as well the grey, 3 quarter length sleeve swimsuit with crossover front-amazing use of their trademark grey jersey. A grown-up collection which successfully balanced power dressing with casual, sleek elegance, I enjoyed the clean lines and simple use of some futuristic, techy fabrics. Modernist offered an unfussy and straight to the point take on SS08.
