LFW SS12: Day One

Day One of London Fashion Week is always my favourite - the buzz and excitement is overwhelming and you can almost feel the energy. Paul Costelloe kicked off this London Fashion Week in true style with a full house. From his berry, bold and jewel tones of his A/W11 collection, Costelloe went back to basics with creams, greys and soft tones, in contrast to the sharp tailoring he does so well. I love the contrast in this tailored jacket with a flirty skirt (right). And the menswear was much the same - muted colours with sharp tailoring, like this suit (below left). Inspired by Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? from 1962, Costelloe threw in elements of Parisian chic and hints of the sixties for a youthful collection full of pleats and pinks, golds and greens.

Next up in my top designers from day one, is Bora Aksu. More muted tones, with brocading of gold, the collection this year was full of his usual recognisable flair, with a beautiful romantic twist. This full-length dress (right) is a perfect example of the understated beauty of Aksu's S/S12 collection. I can't wait to pick up the likenesses on the highstreet! Aksu puts his inspiration down to 5 handwritten postcards from 1905 that he found on a stall, and the Emily Watson wedding scene in Breaking the Waves. Lots of romance and mystery then...
For something a little different; Sass & Bide filled their catwalk with bright colours. Against muted greys and dark polkadots, these bright colours popped and shone - just right for Spring and Summer. Japanese designs, and more sharp tailoring were the order of the day, blended into Sass & Bide's unique take. I particularly love this blue and orange outfit (below) - I can definitely see the highstreet taking this up.

Hair and Beauty Spot

When it comes to hair and beauty, Corrie Nielson never fails to impress. Try Gaga-esque rolls of hair and deep smokey eyes for starters. And, from ants to flowers, Bora Aksu's hair wear is always something special. When it comes to beauty, PPQ are unmatched. Try bright lips for the second S/S season in a row, but this time try bright bubblegum colours and get playful.