GARETH Pugh’s show for LFW SS19 explored and celebrated underground, “outsider society” and club culture – areas of huge interest for the designer. The extraordinary show was performed in a dark, gloomy background while a soil floor characterised the space.
Androgynous models presented the pieces to guests to a soundtrack by Roly Porter which featured stripped-down vocals by Freddy Mercury and Judy Garland. Known for being a designer who breaks the rules and flouts convention, Pugh’s designs seemed to confront expectations with their eclectic combination of block colours, a design feature which feels iconic to Pugh’s aesthetic.
A futuristic feeling reigned, with red, white and black colours predominant and wedge platform boots and bold make up by Val Garland completing the looks. In contrast, earthy browns provided a down-to-earth comparison.
Pugh revealed that an important influence for the show was a focus on the importance of the cyclical nature of art, fashion, and politics. His collection places faith in the power of the cycle of renewal, and the opportunity that regeneration provides.
This belief in the power of creative regeneration was evident in the presentation of the final look, revealed by an apparently pregnant model.
Pugh’s collection contrasted the natural with the futuristic, creating a look which embraced human nature, past, present and future.
by Veronica Gabbana
with editorial support from Hannah Valentine