Weardowney fuk@lfw s/s 06

Tantra nightclub in Soho was the glam locale chosen to showcase a collection that is quintessential Weardowney. From colours - salmon pink, coppery browns, lemon yellows and slate blues - to pretty, cobwebbed handknits this was the kind of treat we have come to expect from a team that includes a former Galliano protégé.

After just a few seasons, Weardowney has established its own boutique within a converted west London pub, their own bi-annual magazine, Serendipitous and a range for TopShop which launched last week. They also heralded the recent 'shrug' trend, only Weardowney's versions are beautifully handmade using an imaginative variety of knits.

Asked to explain the inspiration behind the collection Gail Downey said: "peasant and pagan craftsmanship and derivative of woodlands, leaves, flowers and fields." Anyone planning on a Weardowney wardrobe next season may want to start the crunch workout pretty soon as the midriff appears to be a central focus. From cropped and sleeveless chunky jumpers to low on the hips flared copper lurex skirts tummies are out. Gail and Amy's summer dresses are mainly empire line affairs.

Almost as eyecatching as the clothes themselves are the accessories. Most notably Ôsock shoesÕ- over the knee lurex socks attached to golden stiletto heels and the knitted jewellery which, continuing the charm trend that has been so prevalent of late, was strung with a collection of trinkets Ð shells, beads, and what looked like plastic sharks. The jewellery reached its zenith in the closing piece which was an ornate head dress held in place with a filigree silver chin guard and the model's hand!

Words: Maia Adams. Photos: David Jones.