The fourth day of Manchester’s first ever Fashion Week promised a program to make any fashionista faint with excitement: Brooks Brothers, All Saints, Ted Baker, Flannels and Mulberry all presented live lookbooks of their current in-store collections on a runway in The Avenue in Spinningfields. With goodie bags, champagne and fashion galore, the day was certainly one to remember.
Dominated by formal wear, Brooks Brothers brought a traditional, if slick, array of the reds, whites and blues of a British summer. The men’s wear was particularly impressive, from classic suits to a cool combination of on-trend mint green swimming shorts with a shirt and bowtie for a quirky look of poolside class.
All Saints stayed true to its leather and denim ethos, adding laid back urban prints for the women and well-cut butterfly or polka dot printed denim shirts for the men.
Ted Baker was a definite highlight and not only because they pumped up the crowd with a more “dance floor” than “runway” playlist. Following a few fabulous pastel men’s suits, we were reminded of the imminent wedding season when couples’ combinations were sent down the runway, converting those of us who tend not to subscribe to the partners’ coordination thing.
Flannels showed khaki greens and funky checks for men and some fabulous floral dresses for women. This show was another favourite – decisively so when a “queen of the desert” dress hit the runway with a billowing waterfall of fabric.
Being the last and most coveted show of the day, Mulberry sent disappointingly few looks down the runway, even if they were all to die for. Favourites included a tan and neon yellow number and an oh-so-sweet and summery popsicle dress.
An exciting string of events, Manchester Fashion Week will now be annual and promises to get even bigger and better in future. You can find more information at www.mcrfashionweek.com.
By Eliska Haskovcova
