Spring means graduation, and this week the MA graduates of the Royal College of Art showcased their collections and vision to the world. It was an unconventional runway, market both by the presentation and stylistic choices. Instead of the usual linear runway the models walked dynamically, choreographed to display the different collections, with an attitude that brought about a laid-back atmosphere while elevating the designs within their context.
Deconstruction, minimalistic, geometry and knitwear. These are some of the keywords that came to mind when viewing the fashion show of the Royal College of Art. There was also a glimpse of futurism within the show, constructed in a way that it simply felt as a continuation the 1990s minimalistic trend with just addition of unexpected elements, such as volume. The color palette was in general muted and very somber with shades of white, grey, black and beige. However, there were a few pops of color used to make interesting silhouettes stand out, in indigo and bright red, or a skintight blue jumpsuit with accompanying skin tight restricted red long dress, definitely served as food for thought. That ‘plastic is fantastic’ also seemed to be embraced by RCA graduates, with coats and other stand-alone pieces making a mark. Constructed menswear pieces in plastic were presented as an interesting update of urbanity and a new take on the PVC trend from the early 2000s. Jackets and coats had been painted with an abstract pattern on top of the plastic surface making the heads turn twice.
The RCA fashion show displayed an interesting take on the future of fashion favoring deconstruction, geometry and knitwear but also putting forward ideas on how to evolve trends such a minimalistic tendencies, sport influences as well as incorporating technology such as 3D printing and digital projection. The graduates are a bridge into tomorrow’s trend cycle and Wednesday’s fashion show of Royal College of Art marked an exciting new beginning for this raw fashion talent.
Victoria Edman
