Through the motif of empowerment and the image of power, Phoebe English’s Autumn/Winter 2017 presentation at London Fashion Week was one of voice, unity and repair – a message of strength that fought against the image of fragility. Not only was this season’s collection one of intense emotional reverence, it was also one that suggested a theme that is indeed bigger than the fashion industry, a theme of opposites emphasized over division. In collaboration with Maison de Fleurs, models were seen adorned with crowns and floral embellishment, a sign of both courage and beauty within a scene of intensity and power. A further collaboration with British knitwear brand John Smedley introduced delicate wools flowing freely from the statues’ silhouettes, exhibiting English awareness of a wearability. Through the fabrication of woven sequins, velvets, tulle, boucle wools and cotton shirting, the sense of femininity revealed itself prominently within the collection pieces, enhancing the idea of feminine liberation within the various themes of emotion that encased each statue in the presentation. This season, Pheobe English relayed the intricate nature of thought, of realisation on how to establish power and certainly and how to unite and persevere.
Words: Jasmine Banbury
Illustration: MRSCMillo
