JAPANESE-born, London-based fashion designer Lili Saito is the creative force behind the emerging label Lils. Since graduating from the London College of Fashion in 2023, Saito has been steadily building a dedicated following with her whimsical, texture-driven creations.
This week, Lils. unveiled its AW25 collection, titled Cécile—a name directly inspired by Bonjour Tristesse, Françoise Sagan’s novel exploring seventeen-year-old Cécile’s conflicting emotions as she navigates love and desire.
“I always begin the design process with fabric research and the symbolism of materials,” Saito explains, emphasising the significance of texture in her work. For the AW25 collection, she carefully selected fabrics that mirror Cécile’s emotional journey, tracing the complexities of adolescence and self-discovery.
Saito’s designs reflect this passage into womanhood, crafting pieces that celebrate the female form while offering a softness so exquisite it becomes a kind of armour. “Being feminine does not diminish a woman’s strength.”
Captured by photographer Lara Angelil and styled by Senior Fashion Editor Lily Rimmer, the imagery unfolds like a story, seamlessly intertwining sheer fabrics, shell-like textures, and tactile fur accents to trace a new chapter for Lils.
All clothing: Lils.
Gloves: Paula Rowan
Bangles: Neeka
Black sandals: Studio Amelia
Photography & Direction: @laraangelil
Styling: @lilyrimr
Model: @leila.johnston
Casting: @tytiah @unit_c
Hair & makeup: @rinainata
Agent: Biddy Marquis-Henninger
Lighting Assistant: Tom Frimley
Layout: @leilabartholet
Production: Bella Martin
Fashion assistant: @whoarethey_eden
by Andy Mack