SCOTTISH designer Christopher Kane strung the fashion world with suspense when his eponymous brand paused production in 2023, starving the industry of his idiosyncratic, playfully feminine designs. That is until now.
Debuting as Self-Portrait’s new resident creative director, he has launched his debut collection with a stunningly seductive thirty-piece capsule.
Christopher Kane for Self-Portrait
Self-Portrait has quickly established itself as the fashion-savvy Londoner’s guide to party dressing. Founded 11 years ago by Han Chong, oversized bows, appliqué sequins, and ultra-feminine silhouettes have become synonymous with the brand, which has come to define festive dressing across the capital and beyond. This new collection spotlights Christopher Kane’s “inimitable designs” as Han Chong describes, which have long performed as the fashion brand’s muses and inspiration.
Christopher Kane for Self-Portrait
Unveiled to a live audience at Alva Coachwork Studios in North London, photographer George Eyres took centre stage shooting the lookbook live with Larissa Hofmann taking charge after to capture the campaign. From the first minute, the collection defined itself as liveable and performative, sparing no drama.
Christopher Kane for Self-Portrait
“Self-Portrait Residency represents an ambition I’ve had for years: to create a space where creatives can come together, experiment feely, and shape something entirely unique” as Creative Director Han Chong describes. And unique it certainly is.
The garments fuse Christopher Kane’s fascination with contrasting female tropes – whether sensual seductress or gothic – as well as his known experimentation with different fabric combinations, from lace to crystal chainmail to bias cut satin. The colour palettes are varying too, flirting between pastel pinks and yellows so sharp they borderline neon to a rich black and baby blue.
Carine Roitfeld for Christopher Kane x Self-Portrait
Carine Roitfeld for Christopher Kane x Self-Portrait
Christopher Kane comments: “This partnership celebrates the spirit of collaboration, and I couldn’t be more proud of what we’ve achieved”. Amping up the heat and powerful female energy of the clothing is the first face of the collection to be released – French Fashion Editor Caroline Roitfeld and long-time supporter of Kane.
Carine Roitfeld for Christopher Kane x Self-Portrait
From the sherbet-lemon ruffles adorning mini dresses and matching socks to the sheer black lace cut-out skirts and tops, this sophisticated collection pairs well with a high heel, confident attitude, and an invite to the hottest events of the season. We are undoubtedly RSVPing ‘Yes’.
by Ella Mansell