Nico D

The presentation room at Freemasons' Hall was full to bursting as the crowd eagerly awaited Nico Didonna’s AW10 collection. The big screen showed the fitting of the collection, though all eyes were fixed straight ahead, taking full advantage of the drinks on offer.

The models made full use of the space on a raised platform that acted as the catwalk, but this was a catwalk with a difference. Every detail of the intricate designs was displayed to perfection.

The collection ‘Bright Young Things’ was pure old-fashioned elegance and glamour.

Didonna told The Fashion Scout “inspiration was drawn from the Bright Young Things of the Twenties – they way they live their lives. They were the Paris Hiltons of the Twenties with time and nothing to do, party people who drank a lot.

Enjoying themselves was the essence, and that’s the Twenties influence I wanted to bring into the clothes, rather than traditional costume references. Although I did incorporate feathers into the weave of some of the garments.

People were experimenting with both their sexuality and creating their image. There sense a great sense of liberation, and that’s what I wanted people to feel with this collection – liberated.”

For ladies soft 20’s waves and smoldering eye make-up in gold and midnight blue. Dramatic evening gowns encrusted with sequins, soft dresses were toughened up with leather bikers. The overall look was romantic and chic, taking the best bits of vintage style and presenting them in a confident and modern way.

For the guys flat caps and elegant tailoring featured heavily, alongside a black sequined suit which stole the show, sculptured tweeds and tan leather satchels. Trousers shimmered delicately in the light. The collection is traditional with a very stylish twist.

Words: Kelly Morris

Image: Kristen Blow