Courtesy of @marc_henri_ngandu.
When it comes to London Fashion Week, there are few people more perceptive to the pulse of proceedings than Melbourne-born art director and stylist, Jamie-Maree Shipton. In between styling for the likes of i-D, Interview and Vogue Italia, she also runs the exuberant Instagram moodboard @airtomyearth. Shipton’s IG is a colourful archive of avant-garde accessories and garments, often shot on her phone camera—her unfussy shooting style lets the loud pieces do the talking. An avid advocate of young London talent, she often uses her page as a platform to showcase looks from emerging designers.
Who better then to catch up with ahead of London Fashion Week? We sat down to find out what not to miss, including drool worthy knitwear efforts from Kiko Kostadinov, the potential return of the Christopher Kane croc, and the debut standalone show from Yuhan Wang as she flies the Fashion East nest.
1. The jewellery collaboration at Charlotte Knowles
“Every season she engages with an amazing, and niche, jewellery or accessory artist to create pieces for her collection. Last season was Alexandre Caillot, who created beautiful (and sustainable!) pieces that included metal that had been shot with bullets and crystals!”
2. Yuhan Wang’s first stand alone show
“I just received the invite, titled ‘Funeral Service’ and I’m so looking forward to the “procession” of playfulness that, in Wang’s own words will be a ‘celebration of existence’.”
3. Kiko Kostadinov footwear (and everything else-of course!)
“I met one half of the twins, and masterminds behind Kiko womens, Laura (and Deanna) Fanning back when she was studying at RMIT in Melbourne, Australia, and was already in awe back then of her eye for design. I was so happy to then encounter her again through Kiko. Every detail is always so thoughtful and precise, with the knitwear especially always proving a standout. But, I must say, I am always surprised (and obsessed) with the footwear. Last season’s flower placed between the toe was a wonder, and I can’t wait to see what statement shoe they give us for AW20.”
4. Christopher Kane
“I’m a HUGE Kane fan. Last season, when he brought back the Liquid Gel pieces I got giddy like a little girl. I love when he gives nods back to where he began, and secretly hoping we see some more details from the past. I’d love a lace and buckle bandage dress to pop-up from his CSM days, also give me a Christopher Kane croc again any day!”
5. CSM graduate show
“Even though I can’t attend this season (I’ll be spending my Valentine’s doing a night shoot instead), I will indeed be watching my feed feverishly. This is one of my all time favourites, and there isn’t a better showcase worldwide of new talent. I’m always left super inspired and creatively satisfied knowing the newness that’s to come. I’m ready to be wow-ed, as always!”