Julien MacDonald Spring/Summer 2012. Photo:Getty
WHO? Julien MacDonald
IN A NUTSHELL: Inspired by 'super-yachts' and those who frequent them, Julien MacDonald's spring/summer offerings were as high-octane as ever. Think brazen prints on structured dresses and tunics over trousers, or soft, draped dresses toughed up with metallic silver belts, square top military hats and backless blazers. The models navigated the intimate runway in powerful platform heels, hiding behind huge racer sunglasses, with wet-look hair pinned back into tight, neat chignons - sometimes slathered with red or white paint. As always, his signature finale dresses were the true hero pieces, all cut-out leather bodices, shimmering beadwork and metallic tassels.
BEG, BORROW OR STEAL: The embellished gowns with sheer floor-length skirts were quite breathtaking - if only we had an event worthy of wearing one to.
THE F-ROW: Alesha Dixon, Rosario Dawson, Bianca Jagger, Eliza Doolittle, Grace Woodward, Lorraine Kelly, Hilary Alexander, Harold Tilman - it was a fashion-packed show.
VERDICT: Julien MacDonald knows who his loyal audience are, and he's designed accordingly. Whether or not you're a fan of his always high-impact but occasionally ostentatious creations, there's no denying the level of skill and attention to detail that goes into his work. Quite brilliant.