Saturday 16 June 2012

Saturday June 16th: London Menswear Collections S/S13: Christopher Shannon









Christopher Shannon's show is always a highlight for me on the menswear schedule and when the invitation arrived, I knew it was going to be a goody with an image of a traditional folk costume in a modern urban carnival setting.  This theme became apparent as the models appeared one by one in shredded fabric headpieces shrouding their faces, made in collaboration with Craig Green.  In explanation for those of you outside the UK, this peculiar and particular costume is worn by folk dancers in celebration of the summer solstice (and bizarrely the style has more recently been adopted by young travellers in South East-Asia).  Christopher also sites the cosmic 1970's home craft bible "Native Funk and Flash" as a source of inspirational imagery to arrive at this colourful and textured collection.  Here is HARRY UZOKA backstage with the fine detailed 3D floral makeup by Lauren Parsons which continues Christopher's ongoing consideration for beauty to play an intrinsic role in his styling.  The other strong signature element to Shannon's presentations is a banging soundtrack with today's playlist culminating on "Say My Name" by Cheryl Cole .................... which may well be prophetic if this trendsetter's instinct is on track as usual................. lets see if it enters straight to No.1 in today's chart and consider that some of the purchasers will be converted fash pack from Chris's show!
Listen to Christopher Shannon's playlist for Studio Music FM here.
Find out more about the history and modern movement of British Folklore at Simon Costin's site here.

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