Topshop Unique A/W 2014
Given that the democratisation of fashion is Topshop's chief brand pillar, it's presentation within the Tate Modern's colossal Turbine Hall - each overlooking balcony crammed to the brim with members of the public - was a tactful touch. Moving away from the exclusivity of guest list-only sets, this week Tate-goers can take in the Richard Hamilton retrospective followed by a fashion show, simply by peering into the Topshop-sponsored show space; so you can imagine the turnout for its runway line Unique. After all, Topshop's inclusive philosophy speaks directly to every woman, while also encouraging individuality, and that's what we got on the runway. This season's message started prim - think polite oversized mohair coats, work-appropriate grey tailoring and an almost dainty off-the-shoulder black corset dress - before flexing a raging rebellious streak. Indeed, LL Cool J would like his velveteen puffer back please, not to mention a standout red, brown and pink patchwork fur coat, and stocking tops that were beaded to resemble 3D tattoos. Still, Topshop's real feat is the volume of infectious energy it inspires - all you had to do was look up into the gallery in this case. There was nothing this audience wouldn't try once: quilted puffer shorts, mustard snakeskin, lemon leather, a Big Bird muffler or frostbitten florals. The only thing off-limits in this instance was getting too close to star patron Kate Moss holding court in the front row.
Photography: Jason-Lloyd Evans
Wallpaper* Newsletter + Free Download
For a free digital copy of August Wallpaper*, celebrating Creative America, sign up today to receive our daily digest of inspiration, escapism and design stories
-
Commune’s sustainable personal care products look ‘quite unlike anything else’
Commune’s Somerset-made products stand out in the sustainable skincare crowd. Madeleine Rothery speaks with the brand’s co-founders Kate Neal and Rémi Paringaux
By Madeleine Rothery Published
-
‘Hedonistic and avant-garde’: Rabanne’s Julian Dossena on the legacy of the chainmail 1969 bag
Paco Rabanne’s 1969 chainmail handbag encapsulates the late designer’s futuristic, space-age style. Current creative director Julien Dossena tells Wallpaper* about the bag’s particular pleasures
By Jack Moss Published
-
Postcard from Paris: Olympic fever takes over the streets
On the eve of the opening ceremony of Paris 2024, our correspondent shares her views from the streets of the capital about how the event is impacting the urban landscape.
By Minako Norimatsu Published
-
Get to know Issey Miyake’s innovative A-POC ABLE line as it arrives in the UK
As A-POC ABLE Issey Miyake launches in London this week, designer Yoshiyuki Miyamae gives Wallpaper* the lowdown on the experimental Issey Miyake offshoot
By Jack Moss Published
-
Margaret Howell London Fashion Week Women's S/S 2019
By Dal Chodha Published
-
London Fashion Week S/S 2023: Ahluwalia to Martine Rose
Though slimmed-down, London Fashion Week nonetheless provided the moments of creative expression the city is known for – from Ahluwalia’s ode to Africa to Martine Rose’s much-anticipated runway return
By Jack Moss Last updated
-
Discover these fashion brands at London Craft Week
During London Craft Week, fashion brands including Smythson, Bally and Serapian are hosting events across the capital
By Hannah Silver Last updated
-
Nicholas Daley's multicultural roots celebrated in London
By Laura Hawkins Last updated
-
V&A spotlights the sartorial and social significance of the kimono
For the latest endeavour of London's Victoria and Albert Museum, Kimono: Kyoto to Catwalk explores the evolution of the iconic Japanese garment
By Grace Cook Last updated
-
Erdem A/W 2020 London Fashion Week Women's
By Laura Hawkins Last updated
-
Christopher Kane A/W 2020 London Fashion Week Women's
By Laura Hawkins Last updated