London Fashion Week started off with birds’ chirping this season as designer J. JS Lee had flying like a bird, freedom and carefreeness on her mind for her SS16 collection. The motif of birds was apparent throughout the show as models wore outfits covered head-to-toe in black and white print of tiny birds, dresses with intricate laser cut applique that in movement looked like humming birds’ wings fluttering in the air or striped cropped shirts with wide wings-resembling sleeves worn with matching high waisted skirts.
The cage left behind empty in pursuit of freedom, as pictured on the invite, was referenced in striped pattern – from a mix of textures in silk and mesh to graphic black and white or cream to candy floss pink, baby blue and bright green which was the colour palette of the entire collection.
As to the reoccurring themes of freedom and carefreeness, going hand in hand on this occasion, they were woven in in many ways. In easy-to-wear silk pyjama separates, floaty asymmetrical maxi dresses with spaghetti straps and pleated shift dresses, all transporting us to 1970s California as the perfect time and place to be free and carefree according to Lee. The Californian 1970s inspiration was also demonstrated in the use of chambray denim and platform flip flops, perfect for hanging out by the pool.
The designer’s signature tailoring was not forgotten even this season as suits were spotted on the runway, this time with flared trousers and oversized waistcoats in black or cream or cropped blazers exposing the belly to the Californian sun.
by Sara Hesikova
Images courtesy of MODUS Publicity