This morning at Freemasons Hall we saw the highly anticipated
Swedish School of Textiles show on the catwalk, showcasing the work of nine UK
and international graduates from the class of 2013.
In true graduate showcase manner, the collections we witnessed were
both experimental, abstract, daring and explorative; with an educational
background in complex cutting techniques, future fabrications, intricate
printing technique and emphasised structure, noted as key reoccurring themes in
each collection.
Opening the show we were met by Jesper Danielsson’s collection
entitled ‘Functional Cuts’ which encompassed androgynous outerwear, utilitarian cycle-wear, futuristic
balaclavas and the avant-garde gold clad ‘spaceman’ jacket, distinctly oversize
in origin.
Also challenging the norms of conventional fashion we saw Emeile
Ahlner’s ‘Kurbitch!’ collection of intricately cut, layered womenswear;
fabricated using neon pvc’s justaposed with multi-faceted iridescent and
glitter clad plastics. The traditional woman was transported to a futuristic
space-age era of high shine, gloss and definitive structures. The art of
powerful structure was, in deed, mastered and presented in a futuristic
uniformed manner.
In keeping with the repetitious space-era inspiration; Gustav
Falgen’s ‘Numeris Pelliscaptis Uniforms’ collection offered a
space-man-meets-street-wear fusion, of tie die flared trousers, graffiti print
outerwear, heavy biker boots, bleached shorts with braces and tyrannical
balaclavas; the final aesthetic both powerful and memorable.
Also making a powerful statement we saw Elias Hogberg’s ‘CTRL + V’
collection, which had a predominant focus on print, with the reoccurring floral
motif printed on leather, latex and sheer plastic, creating a unique mural of
juxtaposed print and fabrics, accessorised with fur hoods.
Overall the standard of this years showcase was impeccably high,
with each collection remaining both unique and innovative, true to the nature
of the traditional Graduate Showcase.