Carolyn Massey fuk@lfw s/s 08

Carolyn Massey's show at the Wilton Music Hall by Tower Hill was an intimate affair escaping the usual Fashion Week haunts. The quaint appearances of the young male models marked a true reflection of this designer's initial inspiration for the collection, signifying her grandfather's life and her admiration for him.

The garments and the setting of the show were like moments picked from vintage photographs. On one hand, the images of boys on the sea front ready to set sail on their dinghies, and on the other, more theatrical notes of a private viewing of a Chaplin show.

Oversized long cotton shirts and linen shorts perfect for summer holidays were presented in monotone colours. Waistcoat vests and tailored lapelled jackets add an evening simplistic charm. The casual element of Carolyn's collection is highlighted by a creased look to each of the garments, exemplifying a rough and ready attitude while still obtaining a neat finish to her work. It was almost indicative of ‘The Talented Mr Ripley', with British boy Jude Law lazily walking the streets of Italy. One of the main pieces is a bright white hooded Mac, falling close to the floor, an item that would signal fashion SOS near any lighthouse!

It was a very short and concise range for this fresh new talent showing here for the second time off schedule. One to watch and check out as Carolyn Massey's diffusion range is selling now at Topshop during LFW.

www.carolynmassey.com

Words: Hardeep Ubhi
Photos: Chris Brooks Studio