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| Photography by Lucas Seidenfaden |
Having dressed the likes of Michelle Obama,
the Duchess of Cornwall, and Mel B, Bunmi Koko has gained much press attention,
being featured in Marie Claire, Grazia, The Telegraph and on Vogue.com. So, it
was not surprising that this show was one to be excited about. The front row
was studded with celebrities and buyers including ex Sugarbabe Keisha Buchanan.
Talking to her before the show, she told us why she had come out this evening.
“I came last year and I loved the prints and designs. I’m currently working on
my new album at the moment and I just wanted to be inspired by fashion.”
Well Bunmi certainly didn’t disappoint.
Inspired by the Sirens that appear within Greek mythology this collection
referenced the beautiful danger of these creatures that seductively enticed
people to their deaths. The collection demonstrates the allure of beauty and
its misleading nature. Everything about the collection from colur to fabric
took its evolution for this oceanic myth. The colour palette reflected the
tropical tones of the coral reef and sea anemone. Shades of purple, navy,
yellow, turquoise, salmon and orange complemented the fish inspired patterns.
Garment shapes were either well structured or soft and feminine and at times
the two were entwined. Soft and floaty kaftans were show alongside bold tops
with origami bows.
The Bunmi signature 3D pleats (longitudinal
caissons) were seen in patterned skirts and culottes. Simple tank tops were
decorated with chiffon wings under the arms and the whole collection was very feminine
and flirty. Tiered layers of
organza softened structured sleeveless jackets. Print kimonos were finished
with silk ribbons that danced in the air behind the model as she walked. Laser
cutting was the other star performer in the show, from an orange neoprene
jacket with lace effect lapels and collar to the final white fitted dress
completely cut out with a modern lace effect. Referencing the Sirens and the
beauty of the sea once more, pieces were finished with knotted rope. The rawness of the rope acted to belt
pieces and to accessorise with necklaces and belts. The twisted rope and laser
cut fabric acted as a physical symbol of the man made juxtaposed by the natural
beauty of the sea. Both equally dangerous but delightful.
Text: Samantha Farr