Richard Quinn concludes London Fashion Week with tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

OhAfter a day’s hiatus to mark the Queen Elizabeth IIofficial burial of London Fashion Week Concludes on September 20 with Stalwart’s shows. Emilia Wickstead And chat with newcomers. However, the anticipated event of the day was a final. Richard Quinn.

The Peckham-based designer had a special relationship with Her Majesty, as his LFW show was the only one she attended during her 70-year reign. In 2018, it presented Quinn with the inaugural QEII Award for British Design. A thoughtful tribute was to be expected at his Spring Summer 2023 show.

A drinks reception at the Royal Horticultural Hall served as a fittingly theatrical setting. Attendees were greeted by a room draped in monochrome fabrics — cascading from ceiling to floor — featuring Quinn’s signature floral print. Entering the main hall, celebrity guests including Jourdan Dunn, Sharon Horgan and fellow designer Henry Holland encountered an enormous installation: TV screens surrounded by trailing wires and flashing surveillance cameras depicting Quinn’s “glorious future.” ” nodding to the theme.

But first, a look at the past. An emotional soundtrack, courtesy of The Mortal Coil’s version of Tim Buckley’s “Song To The Siren” appeared on the screens as archive footage of the Queen’s coronation. Afterward, an eerie procession of black-clad models – topped with veils or crystal-encrusted crowns – moved around the room. A tribute from the Queen to the late Queen, “who touched him among so many others with her grace and kindness”. These were exquisite ensembles made of intricate beaded lace and jacquard velvet, sometimes adorned with large bouquets of roses. Some silhouettes were reminiscent of looks from the Maharaj era, such as the inclusion of circle skirts, or a dress coat belted at the waist.

As the subdued music gave way to a heavy beat, the futuristic look we were promised arrived in a bright palette of violets, reds, mustards and emeralds. The hard-shell bodysuits, which formed a heart shape around the models’ necks, displayed the couture craftsmanship that Queen is known for – some worn with latex leggings, others as part of wide-leg jumpsuits or midi dresses. .

As well as volume, Quinn played with texture: ornate crystal flowers, ostrich flowers and giant embroidered roses all sparkled in the light. Big Brother– Center of style. The armor was followed by more fluid looks: an oversized rose corsage cape, graphic floral print opera capes and more jumpsuits, one of which was worn. Drag Race UK Standout fashion queen, Tice.

As is customary, the final look of the show was the bride’s. In this season, it was a modest lace confection that covered the head and had a veil on top. For added drama, it was preceded by a pair of bridesmaids in matching rose capes. As the scene moved to the other side of the room, the models were showered with black confetti and the guests erupted into loud applause. It was a triumphant end to another season of London shows, and a fitting tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, from a designer she clearly admired.