London is not cowed by terrorism. After the terror attack in London’s Parsons Green tube station on Sept. 15, the city hosted the annual London Fashion Week for the Spring/Summer 2018 collection.
The House of Ikons show were joined by a host of local and international designers like ShenAnnz, Issosy Children, Donna Hartley Millinery, Luna Joachim, Sherin, Jolie, Honee, and Filipino designers Jef Albea and Mitch Desunia, who did the finale for the afternoon show.
“We actually get a lot of our ideas from where we live: the Spanish mountains, colors, the sea and all sorts of design that come into it,” said Donna Hartley, a milliner, who showcased 15 hats for its 2018 Spring/Summer range.
“The theme of my collection is candle in the wind. It’s orange and black, which focuses on the flame and the suit that go together,” said Shanila Ali, of the brand ShenAnnz. She wants to promote women empowerment through her creations.
Dubbed as the fashion show that cares, the House of Ikons show celebrates the new generation of global talent. It provides an opportunity for new and emerging designers to be seen in the London fashion scene. It also supports charitable causes.
This year, the House of Ikons is supporting the Sharan project to fight all forms of violence against women and children.
“House of Ikons is a platform for new and emerging designers for them to move to the next level. They have difficulty finding someone to support them. This is where House of Ikons comes into play,” said House of Ikons CEO Savita Kaye.
She added: “The participation of Filipino designers is high standard as per always.”
MAKING PINOYS IN LONDON PROUD
Dubai-based designer Albea debuted at the House of Ikons show with a 14-piece collection.
“It’s my dream to come here. It’s my dream place, tapos nakasali pa ako sa London Fashion Week,” said Albea.
He added: “As you see, mga simpleng damit lang but I played with colors. I just want to show London that my clients have one common denominator: Jef Albea.”
Desunia returned to the London Fashion Week with 23 pieces of Versailles-themed gowns and ready-to-wear creations.
“Mas marami siya ngayong bead work. ‘Yung color, kung ano nasa Palace of Versailles. But I made sure they are not too heavy on the eyes,” said Desunia.
She also collaborated with Manila-based shoe brand Moxie Amsterdam to provide her runway- wearable footwear.
“I think this will give us an opportunity to be known more globally. We are actually known globally through our online store but I think this will open more doors for retail around the world,” said Catherine van der Tol of Moxie Amsterdam.
Desunia was proud to do the finale show for the third time.
“I would like to show the world that Filipino designers, especially Mitch Desunia, is globally competitive pagdating sa fashion,” said Desunia.
“We definitely have so much to be proud of in terms of talent, and the creativity of our designers is really worldwide,” said Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom Antonio Lagdameo, who watched the show to support the Filipino designers.
Desunia’s also embarked on an ingenious and daring street fashion show to display her collection of impeccable hand-made embroidery and patterns.
The London Fashion Week showcases the best in the fashion world and its shows, like the House of Ikons, give a platform for new and emerging talents worldwide to shine in an international stage.
Story: ABS-CBN News
