Tuesday at AFW 2007

Day two of Swatch Alternative Fashion Week 2007 was just as chilly but thankfully just as exhilarating. The catwalk curtains had been wisely removed to prevent any trips or falls - the wind whipped them into a frenzy on Monday and the story would have no doubt been the same today!

Luckily, Rachel Antonio's succinct collection of whimsical empire-line dresses and velvet boleros seems to have been designed to move majestically in the gale. A pleated maxi dress in dusky pink will no doubt work just as well in the lazy summer breeze as it does with the icy winter one. The designer uses accents of lace and ruffled necklines that hark back to the 'Ye Olde' times of Elizabeth I and, if the virgin queen found herself in the 21st century, she'd be clamouring to court Rachel's distinct style. A nude-pink, chiffon jumpsuit with graduated neckline can be worn effortlessly and delicate prints work well on summer dresses.

Tuesday was definitely a winner in the womenswear stakes. Cat Carroll hit the nail on the head with her collection of Glam Rock inspired garments. Each piece varies wildly from the next: huge draping tailored trousers that billowed tumultuously in the wind, enveloping the wearer's legs whereas a lurex knit body-con dress enhances every curve and is paired with a black pleated bib collar. The diversity of each garment helps the collection look innovative and fresh. The models make-up complemented the clothes perfectly: modern day Geisha girl.

Despite the success of the womenswear, there was a fair bit for the boys too. Jessica Odoi loosely referenced the Mr Men series with her tailoring. Blue and yellow stripy jackets conjure images of a grown-up Just William, reluctant to leave his school blazer behind. Pin-stripe waistcoats and trousers are paired with bowler hats and trilbies and Jessica flirts successfully with the idea of woollen shawls for men.

Anna Felton and Emily Squires have created a collection for both women and men, but the menswear was definitely their strong point. Sticking to a natural palette of muddy browns and moss greens they sent out an assortment of classic garments with close attention to detail. Brown suits feature thin panels of contrasting textiles that create texture and trouser hems feature subtle pleats. Understated quirks seem to be what this duo does best.

With such a melting pot of inspirations to keep us warm, there's no need to worry about the cold.

Words: Selene Pearson.

Photos: Nick Ingham and Jo Fotheringham. Prints are available to purchase from SmilePlease.net.