Jaeger London

Over at the BFC tents it was the turn of another label to make its fashion week debut. This time however it was from an iconic British brand that has been dressing ladies since 1884. Quite why Jaeger took 124 years to take to the catwalk is anyone's guess but it was, understandably, the buzz show of the day and the fash pack turned out in force to see the grande dame's face lift.

Inspired by 'a rich heritage of luxurious textures and fabrics' the collection is based on a return to the archives of the 50s and 60s when the likes of David Bailey and Norman Parkinson were snapping beauties such as Jean Shrimpton, Julie Christe and Marianne Faithfull and London was swinging. But while head designer Karen Boyd emphasised that 'Jaeger isn't about recreating a particlular era or piece' there was a sense that this was kind of what they had done with not enough emphasis on re-interpreting that era's fashions for 2008.

That said, the collection was packed with gorgeous pieces that are bound to fly off the shelves: shearling gilets, slinky flares, double face wool jackets and bohemian printed silk georgette blouses – all exude unselfconscious sass. And a palette of 'new neutrals' (aka liquid petrol, deep forest green, warm moss, peacock and lichen) is lifted with prints that include snake, geometric spikes and blocks, graphic florals and tribal flashes.

For our money (if we had that kind of money) we'd invest in the fab accessories: python print hobo bags, fringed clutches, patent bucket bags, Stephen Jones-designed fishermen's hats, giant bow ties and sexy cinched belts.

Words: Maia Adams
Photos: Ian Gillett