Richard James A/W 2015

Male models wearing Richard James clothing — (Image credit: Jason Lloyd-Evans)

Mood Board: The British engineers who helped to bridge the South American Andes at the beginning of the 20th century inspired creative director Toby Lamb this season. Classically tailored suits, herringbone patterns and double breasted jackets received an injection of high-altitude vibrancy as he played with bracing colour combos in fuchsia, turquoise and blood red.

Scene setting: An outsized photograph of the Transandine railway amid the mountainous landscape of Chile was the backdrop for this runway show. Its location, the BMW dealership in Mayfair, could be interpreted as a nod to the technical prowess of the British engineers: the machinery of their locomotives preceded the more refined automobile.

Best in show: Herringbone ponchos in burgundy and purple brought together British and Native American cultures with a global approach to pattern. Frayed multicoloured patches punctuated pieces throughout the show. Woven bracelets looped through buttonholes added an individual touch to otherwise conventionally tailored silhouettes.

Siska Lyssens has contributed to Wallpaper* since 2014, covering design in all its forms – from interiors to architecture and fashion. Now living in the U.S. after spending almost a decade in London, the Belgian journalist puts her creative branding cap on for various clients when not contributing to Wallpaper* or T Magazine.