Karen Walker fuk@lfw s/s 06

Over an hour-long wait in the street for the Karen Walker show and a further loiter once inside the venue tested the patience of even the most hardened fashion lovers. So much so that several editors and stylists eventually gave up and headed off to catch another show, or a coffee.

Those that did manage to go the distance however, were not disappointed. There was something schoolgirly about this collection. Perhaps it was the socks pulled up to mid-calf, the sometimes sensible shoes - ballet pumps and boyish lace-up loafers among them - or the smattering of little shift dresses and subdued colours of the opening outfits.

Capped sleeves and bows on blouses and dresses are a prominent feature and as the show progressed the introduction of sky blues and orange lightened the mood. Braces and cute blue and oatmeal chequered belts kept skirts and trousers up and shorts in styles from small to baggy, also looked great. Walker's quaint use of print is in evidence this time in the shape of large polka-dot bow ties and a jumble of sunglasses printed onto tees and sweatshirts. It was a sweet show and one that - almost - made up for one of the longest pre-show waits of fashion week.

Words: Maia Adams. Photos: David Jones.