Topshop: Out With The Old And In With The Nouveau

What with London Fashion Week peering over the horizon, Artrocker thought they would take a re-look at Topshop's AW10 collection for some retrospective inspiration.

OUT OF THE WILD

"The 'Out Of The Wild' warrior girl invites you to take a trip into a post-apocalyptic world, where fashion survivors battle the elements..."

Delicate lace is teamed with chunky tassled knits to create an amalgamation of fairytale meets casual. Luxurious furs are central to this look, with leather strapping creating a bondage style edge. Patchwork, cobweb crochet, tatty edges and fabrics that appear knotted are the details bringing together this look, with a contrast of spakling diamantes.

Inspiration has been drawn from nature; where beauty has been seen in the imperfect world. Illustrations of leaf skeletons decorate pleated chiffon and crude animal prints are featured on tights. Feathers and furs are used to represent primitive animal instincts.

The overal silhouette is long, draped and imperfect. Think long, flowing maxis in chiffon layered with textured bralets and chunky strapped boots.





DARK NOUVEAU

Art Nouveau is contrasted with Beardsley's illustrations for Oscar Wild and The Bandshees created by Neville Page for Avatar. Think fiercely studded corsets and chainmail with heavily embellished cobweb knitwear. Leather is key with harnessing detail. Feminine lace is contrasted with aggressive studding to create beauty in the dark.



THE OUTSIDERS

English Hertiage is deconstructed to create a new modern look where old pieces have a revised shape. Primitive styling is evident in the inspiration; hunting jackets, plaid and tweed fabric and chic jodhpur leggings are the focus of the re-worked look. Luxuiours furs are teamed with heavily tailored fabrics and tassled, chunky knits to create a look that highlights the feminine in the masculine.

Think thick sheepskin birdwatching capes, textured leather heels, thigh high chunky socks and structured skirts demonstrating the hunter in a modern light.



www.topshop.com