ByTamara Corin, Tamara Corin
If you found yourself in the centre of London over the past week, you would have been privy to a hub of fashionistas competing for the most stylish and eccentric look. This is what London Fashion Week brings to the capital. Old and new designers use it as a platform for not just their new spring/summer collections but to showcase new models, celebrity endorsements and of course new trends that will soon descend on the high street.
Although we're only just getting our heads around autumn's cosy knits and fluffy coats, the fashion pack have already decided what we'll be wearing next summer, and having been fortunate enough to see so many of the new collections, I couldn't be more excited for next year's offerings.
Homegrown designs from British labels were as strong as ever. Mulberry is back in bloom with clothes inspired by a country garden. A utilitarian but romantic feel was very much present on the catwalk while the new must-have bag in the Mulberry pack is The Delphie.
This all-in-one handbag caters for all occasions with magic straps that lengthen and unbuttoning fabric that reveals a new colour. It's the most no-nonsense bag yet and I predict it will be sold-out within minutes of landing in stores next year.
Our favourite high-street retailer, Topshop Unique, had a young feel to its new collection. Block colours of red, white and blue in frilly hot pants and short A-line skirts ensured Cara Delevingne looked every inch the energetic and spirited young model that she is. In contrast, Pringle of Scotland's collection was a rainbow of sorbet shades in fluid and transparent fabrics that gave a soft, feminine and summery feel to the clothes and transported onlookers to warm and carefree nights abroad (I wish!).
For versatile separates, I'll be heading no further than Temperley's new collection of sexy layers with her signature accents of lace and embroidery and Japanese-inspired prints and kimono styles. The clothes have this effortless breezy look and feather-light feel to them that flatter all shapes and sizes. Whistles and Joseph's S/S 15 collections are the go-to high street equivalent.
Print, as ever, was very much present on the catwalks. Orla Kiely, Sophia Webster and House of Holland didn't disappoint with loud, fun prints that are specifically designed to get you noticed. Definitely not for the fashion meek!
And last, but by no means least, eveningwear is having a bit of a fashion moment. Be prepared to see Hollywood starlets sporting the latest catwalk looks from Marchesa, Julian MacDonald, Matthew Williamson to name a few. Glitz and glamour returns in a big way but with a rare sophistication with less flesh on show and more intricate design and embellishment that would fit perfectly on any A-lister.: Maxi gowns, feathers, sequins, crystals, tulle, satin and ruffles are all on the menu. Finding that perfect evening dress will never be easier.
2015 is set to be an exciting year in fashion, especially in British design. Having had a glimpse, trust me, you'll want it all.