Hotly anticipated each year is the Student Showcase, where the next generation of designers give us a glimpse into the future of fashion. Many designers utilised unusual construction methods that ultimately restricted the use of the body in one form or another, from trapped arms, tied up wrists,  to tightly bound legs. The beauty of the showcase is that the designers do not have to be commercial because they don’t need to sell anything yet. This was reflected in the collections where the sometimes unwearable designs were testaments only to the vision and talent of the designer and were true artistic expressions.

As there was a large volume of designers in this show so I am only posting my top five favourites.

Georgia Lazzaro
Lazzaro opened the showcase with long, distorted shillouettes, utilising strange shapes, high necklines and full length dresses to extend the figure in an almost grotesque manner.

Christiana Livaditis
Arguably the highlight of the showcase, Livaditis’ thought provoking designs were captivating and intriguing. Highly theatrical, this collection was a visual treat for runway-goers. Overly exaggerated elements and creative binding in between the legs and between the hands, many elements were designed to restrain the model creating the need to walk and move in particular ways whilst wearing the garments. The implication of these elements take this collection out of the realm of mere clothing or costume design and into the category of wearable art.

Jacqueline Tyrell
This pretty and coherent collection was refreshing change for the showcase, drawing on a light colour palette of lavender and beige. Although very loosely tailored, the range remained feminine, and was very commercially viable compared to her contemporaries.

Olivia Jung
Another departure from the majority of designers, Jung’s collection revolved around electric blues and greens. The thread work and metallic embellishments in this collection were an exemplification of Jung’s raw talent, expressing her bold vision whilst remaining wearable – a feat that will ensure this designer crosses over from student to star.

Prufrock. by Ellie Mayer
Attention to detail was key in Mayer’s collection with little embellishments adding surprise and delight. Ultra-femme with layers of ruffles, and sheer elements, the pieces tapped into the lingerie as outerwear trend by having a distinct boudoir feel whilst remaining elegant.

March 18th, 2010
LMFF, Runway
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