Millie Cross breaks down the trends and themes in three of her favourite SS20 shows.

Upcycling at London Fashion Week

On the 15th September, Natasha Zinko presented her brightly coloured collection to the masses. What made Zinko’s collection so eye catching and different for me was her use of upcycling. Blazers and shirts were combined together to create a garment, and squares of printed fabrics were sewn together to create items of clothing. 

With Extinction Rebellion being such a large part of this year’s fashion week, even to the point where it almost didn’t happen, Zinko’s collection felt important. Although designers are making a conscious effort to be more sustainable, to see upcycling on the runway felt different and significant. The show didn’t take place in a venue, but on the street which created an atmosphere of excitement. It felt like fashion was changing.

Bright Colours, Big Florals 

At another London Fashion Week, Irish-American fashion designer Paul Costelloe pulled it out the bag yet again. On the 16th September in the Waldorf Hotel, models strutted down the catwalk in bright colours and bold prints bringing sunshine to a rainy London. 

The Costelloe show has to be one of my favourites from London Fashion Week. The prints were eye catching with contrasting bright colours combined with dark floral outlines. Bright yellows, vibrant pinks and neon orange paraded around the Hilton creating a West Coast party vibe. The collection was made up of suits and dresses, with power shoulders and sleeves consistent throughout. 

Models wore neon pink, yellow and orange heels with neon mesh socks. Costelloe got his models to wear neon head to toe including painted nails. Neon seemed to be a theme throughout Fashion Week this year; look out for the trend from Spring 2020.

Renowned for his audience to be reality TV cast members, not only did the collection catch my eye but so did the front row. Love Island were there in full force with Yewande taking to the runway before the show to pose for the press in her Paul Costelloe two piece. Made in Chelsea star Francesca Newman-Young and Scottish singer Talia Storm were also on the front row to view the SS20 collection. 

Animal Print Will Always Be OK

Animal print is everywhere, and in my eyes its timeless. At the University of Leeds, it’s safe to say we love an animal print. Leopard, zebra, cheetah print you name it, it’s always on campus. Zebra print was consistent throughout Mark Fasts collection this year. 

Models paraded down the catwalk in laser cut style zebra patterns. Fabric was cut out showing skin underneath. The zebra print didn’t cover the whole garment, but was instead frequently worn as a mesh layer over another item of clothing. Layering with animal prints was a key theme and a big trend. But let’s be honest, Leeds University students knew this years ago.