Photos: Getty Images (3)
DESIGNER: Mulberry
INSPIRATION: Eclectic blend of Valley of the Dolls, naughty English royalty, Hollywood theatricals, and over-the-top animal prints
TOP LOOKS: Ruffle Lizzie jacket and skirt in black wool tinsel paired with hooded trench in camel wool; embroidered Narina bomber in drizzle rabbit fur; swan skirt in powder silk satin
ACCESSORIES: Gold chunky, charm chain necklaces; beaded tubular necklaces; gold leopard brooches; classic Mulberry bags and clutches reinvented; chain high heels; pumps in bold neon shades, boots in black, leopard print and mustard yellow
WHO WAS THERE: An intimate audience, including Alexa Chung, who has a bag named after her, models, editors, Upper East Side shoppers
WHAT WE THOUGHT: Three life-size, glitter covered panthers surrounded by neon pink watercolour walls and gold, sparkly beaded curtains were the backdrop for the Mulberry a/w 2010 show, mimicking the luxury, fierceness and over the top fun of the collection. The models paraded around the panthers to a techno remix of songs from The Jungle Book (a small pug made a repeat appearance, lead around the circle by several of the models).
Creative director Emma Hill designed a collection that evoked the drama and glam that Mulberry is known for, manipulating the clothes to appear decadent and intricate, yet flirty and effortless and the same time.
The pieces blended a mix of fabrics from super-luxe leather and tailored wools to relaxed denim, silk and rose-petal ruffles. The shapes were reminiscent of Candy Land, with cupcake-esque dresses and bubble plum skirts.
Accessories and design embellishment were the highlights of the collection, as they usually are with Mulberry. Exposed zippers,soft watercolour prints made edgy, nudes, beiges and peaches paired with loud tie-dye patterns and animal prints to make the show a work of complete eye candy.