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After only two Christopher Raeburn catwalk shows, it already feels like
the designer has laid down strong roots. Just like last season, his show told a story and paid homage to the craftsmanship of his garments. On arrival guests listened to the wild crashing of waves, transporting press, buyers, and celebrity fans into the Maunsell Sea Forts of the War, where Raeburn found his starting point. The show itself, styled by i-D’s Fashion Editor Elgar Johnson, pointed to the naval defence forces, embedding pieces of military history in the fabric of each garment. Raeburn is known for reworking military fabrics and paying close attention to style and function. Each piece is constructed with consideration, attention and respect for style, and that in itself deserves praise. Raeburn maintained all of these elements this season, but there was a very definite, strategic development into accessories and for the first time he introduced jogging bottoms. These did not add an overtly sportswear feel to the collection as they were crafted and structured in a way that tied into the outerwear and Raeburn’s military culture. Raeburn takes style very seriously, and it’s a refreshing outlook in a time where putting on your best for most people means shoving on grubby trainers and beat up skinny jeans. It’s nice to see a bit of chic injected into garments traditionally considered casual.
Text: Ger Tierney
Photography: Mitchell Sams
