Caroline Charles' a/w 2011/12 show. Photo: Getty Images
DESIGNER: Caroline Charles.
INSPIRATION: Twentieth century revisited - rich, strong, sumptuous colours channeled via Wallis Simpson.
TOP LOOKS: A variety of classically tailored pieces combining muted autumnal colours with animal prints, flashes of red and teal in jackets and dresses, hand embroidered and beaded evening wear.
ACCESSORIES: Bowler hats and animal print fedoras; slender leather gloves; narrow belts; ankle boots and suede court shoes.
WHO WAS THERE: Actress Emilia Fox arrived for the front row looking very elegant and was immediately surrounded by photographers
WHAT WE THOUGHT: This was a more mature show compared with the quirky fun with which Paul Costelloe opened London Fashion Week. The first pieces were well tailored with clean silhouettes although the muted colour palette lacked visual punch. Later pieces made use of hand embroidery, beading and more vibrant reds and teals to excite the audience. The ribbon bows used as belts and hair ties felt like a more restrained version of Gemma Arterton's blue bow at the BAFTAs.