Christopher Kane's catwalk shows are always fashion 'moments', when even the most jaded eye is surprised and often moved by the vision of the designer.
Words: Phoebe Frangoul, picture credit: Rex Features
While Spring/Summer 2012 was a light, optimistic affair with pale blue and silver brocades and sporty looks, for Autumn/Winter Christopher Kane's mood darkened. A bruise-like palette of dark purple, navy blue and black - with angry flashes of red - appeared to dramatic effect on the lavender carpeted catwalk (ever the perfectionist, Kane made sure the air was scented with lavender too.)
Leather trim on everything from dresses to coats and a curious blue-black ponyskin fabric added to the grungy vibe, as did fluffy oversized mohair sweaters in lilac (very Kurt Cobain) and the heavy rock soundtrack.
Demure shift dresses were subtly sexed up with cut-outs at the waist which were echoed in shoe boots, and as the show went on the colour palette shifted from black and blue through purple to vibrant scarlet, always with those slick, edgy details - the leather trim, cut-outs and sleek shapes.
We loved a purple leopard print effect on PVC which appeared on jackets and dresses, and a bizarre red jumper which seemed to bristle like a sea anemone. Elements of the Spring/Summer collection were referenced and developed in the form of a stunning violet dress adorned with black three-dimensional flowers, and a dark, metallic fabric with appliqued florals.
For Autumn/Winter 2012 Christopher Kane produced a collection that was often dark, moody and brooding, but always beautiful.
