LFW: CAROLINE CHARLES S/S 2010

Opening show? Check! Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London and the unlikely cover star of Elle magazine? Check! Now on to the next show, which is none other than Caroline Charles. It seems that whenever Paul Costelloe is showing, Caroline Charles follows suit. As the veterans of London Fashion Week, much Is expected from designers who are distinctively British, and Caroline Charles did not disappoint.

Caroline Charles’ most recent collection embodies a retro feel paired with a fun, flirty attitude. Models strutted down the catwalk in polka dot bikinis and cut out swimsuits were paired with heart-shaped sunglasses and hairdo’s reminiscent of yesteryear. The “tequila sunset” motif continued to adorn empire line dresses with ruffled sleeves and neck pieces. Showcasing a cheeky flash of thigh, a drawstring detail was incorporated to maintain the subtle mischievous elements in her collections. Luxurious silks and cottons were printed with palm trees, depicting a distinct exotic summer vibe. Blue, orange, green, and red featured in the extensive colour palette.

Maintaining the essence of summer, mix and matched shorts, shirts, tunics and dresses made up the collection, oozing frivolity from the seams.
Talking of her inspirations for the collection, Charles notes “The optimism of modern women for the new decade - this Spring/Summer 2010 collection conveys a smart, feminine and fun mood.”

If the clothes didn’t tickle your fancy, a good game of “Fashion Eye Spy” could occupy the time. Front row guests included Elle’s Lorraine Candy, Joan Collins, Boris Johnson, Erin O’Connor – who opened London Fashion Week with Boris - and British Fashion Council chairman Harold Tillman.

Images courtesy of the Fashion Spot forums.