ENGLAND: Singapore-born designer Ashley Isham shows a theatrical collection at London Fashion Week, while established name Nicole Farhi keeps it simple

London Fashion Week took a theatrical turn on Thursday (September 21) with an elaborate spring/summer collection from Singapore-born Ashley Isham. Isham sent models down the catwalk in finely tailored, couture-inspired pieces, wearing dramatic pale make-up and feathered head-dresses. Gowns skimmed the floor and were embellished with sequin, beading and embroidery. The colour palette was kept classical, with most of the pieces in black, cream or silver. Isham called his collection 'Tropicalia' and said it was influenced by the Brazilian rainforest. "The inspiration is basically tropicalia, which is Brazilian," he said. "It's all based on the whole idea of the rainforest and the end with the fantasy section, it's all about the rainforest." Isham set up his own label in 2000 after studying at the London College of Fashion, Central St. Martin's and Middlesex University. In addition to his ready-to-wear label, he has a demi-couture range featuring hand finished gowns, inspired by haute couture. Nicole Farhi, one of London Fashion Week's biggest names, showed a comparatively simple collection for spring/summer 2007. Loosely-cut, airy summer dresses in cotton, linen and chiffon dominated the show. Skirts were tulip-shaped and finished just above or below the knee, while trousers were either long and wide or cropped and fitted. Colours were navy, black and white. Patterns were simple; checks, dots and abstract flower prints. Farhi is known for her easy tailoring for working women and for chic, feminine evening looks. She was born in Nice in the south of France, to Turkish parents, and moved to London in the early 1970s. She launched her label in 1983 and added menswear in 1989. Her designs are worn by actresses Nicole Kidman, Cate Blanchett, Kate Winslet and Renee Zellweger. She is married to the playwright David Hare.

ITN Source | September 22, 2006

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