Ones to Watch with Specsavers Part I

Anita Hirlekar, JS Shin, Leaf Xia and Typical Freaks are four names you need to remember. These four esteemed fashion designers have been selected by Fashion Scout to receive the coveted Ones to Watch title. With special thanks to Specsavers, Fashion Scout are able to present the SS16 collections from the winners. As they don the catwalk, Fashion Scout and the rest of the fashion industry alike, are most definitely watching.

Anita Hirlekar, a Central Saint Martens Graduate and Luxury Womenswear specialist, curated a collection that defined creative talent. Each piece was intricately hand-crafted with macrame, embroidery and fringing, showcasing a uniquely textured collection.

 Black pulled the looks together, with flashes of colour varying in every garment. The structure was rigid and strict, opposing the chaotic and complex nature of the embroidery. Layers of mesh were featured throughout, often beneath the garments to peak through cutouts, breaking up the heaviness of the manipulated fabrics.

Whilst J S Shin’s designs also displayed cutouts and sheer fabrics to adhere to the modern aesthetic, his designs were heavily inspired by traditional Eastern style. A graduate from London College of Fashion, Joon-Sik specialises in Italian tailoring. Silk and organza which was folded origami style, tied and belted to synch the waist, creating a softer and stunning look.

Oriental floral appliqué was contrasted with the classic, modern check, combining traditional and contemporary conventions to create a refreshing and rightfully praised collection. The collection’s palette was neutral in tone and was perfectly accentuated by Specsavers’ elegant modern frames.

 The glasses brand spoke highly about collaborating with the designers, a spokesperson told Fashion Scout that they are thrilled to support Ones to Watch. The designers and Specsavers collaborated on the catwalk by pairing looks with glasses. 

Both Anita Hirlekar and J S Shin excelled in their individual styles, showcasing the breadth of variety that fashion has to offer.

Fashion Scout for London Fashion week runs from 18th - 22nd September 2015 at the Freemasons' Hall, WC2B 5AZ.

Remember to follow our Instagram, and Twitter to see the shows as they happen, and to use the hashtag #FashionScout. 

Words: Alexandra Craft 

Images: Maja Jankowska & Stefania Porcu 
Editor: Fiona Nicholls