Shao-Yen Chen - One to Watch Award

Shao Yen
Goddess Collection - Autumn Winter 2011/12
Image by ReDesign for Life

I am so excited to read that Shao-Yen Chen has received a Ones to Watch award from the Vauxhall Fashion Scout.  The 'Goddess' collection certainly caught my eye when it was presented at London Fashion Week in February.  A wonderfully innovative use of textures, embellishment and colour brought together in delicately sculptured silhouettes.  The designer has created a trademark for experimentation with textiles and silhouette, explaining it is "a way of reinventing traditional crafts with new materials and forms."

The One's to Watch award was set-up to support and help emerging, innovative designers to build sustainable businesses.  As part of the award, Shao-Yen's SS12 collection will be shown on the Fashion Scout catwalk during London Fashion Week in September.

Inspirations for the new collection have been taken from 80's and 90's street-wear with tribal, punk and bondage elements.  I can't wait to see it.  Especially when Shao-Yen's design philosophy is "be open to everything"

Shao Yen
Goddess Collection - Autumn Winter 2011/12
Image by ReDesign for Life

Shao Yen
Goddess Collection - Autumn Winter 2011/12
Image by ReDesign for Life

Emesha launches an androgynous edge for Autumn Winter 2011/12

Emesha
Autumn Winter 2011/12

I love Emesha's AW12 collection!

Taking it's initial inspiration from the shirt, the collection reworks this classic shape into other garments to create a relaxed, contemporary look.  These pieces are juxtaposed with razor sharp tailoring for a clean silhouette resulting in a collection of unique pieces with an androgynous edge.  

When I viewed the collection at London Fashion Week's Estethica, what also struck me was the premium quality of it's finish and fabrics - all of which are 100% natural and/or organic.  The label is fully committed to environmental and social responsibilities:  always sourcing new eco-friendly fabrics, using sustainable materials and recycling as much as possible.

In addition to this, Emesha practices fair wage policy and production is organized to help the depriving fashion industry in Hungary.

What is there not to love about Emesha.

Emesha
Autumn Winter 2011/12

Emesha
Autumn Winter 2011/12

Emesha
Autumn Winter 2011/12

Emesha
Autumn Winter 2011/12

Emesha
Autumn Winter 2011/12

Chichia London receives EFF Innovation Award

Chichia London.  'Made in Dar' collection
3-print tiered khanga dress

Chichia London was set up in 2007 by London based designer, Christine Mhando.  Influenced by her Tanzanian culture,  the designer re-creates the traditional East African cotton "Khanga" into quirky yet wearable styles.  Christine Mhando's aim is to create pieces that are timeless rather than driven by seasonal trends.

Stunning colour combinations, eye-catching prints and intricate embellishments play a significant part in the collections.  The result is an eclectic collection of modern dresses and separates.

My favourite is  the "Made in Dar" collection.

Chichia London.  'Made in Dar' collection
Palm print khanga tunic dress

Chichia London.  'Made in Dar' collection
Khanga print shirt dress with studded shoulder.

Chichia London.  'Made in Dar' collection.
Butterfly and maxi leaf print kitenge tunic dress

Chichia London.  'Made in Dar' collection.
Print kitenge one sleeve embellised shift dress.

Chichia London.  'Made in Dar' collection.
Yellow palm print khanga and turquoise fringe top
worn with flame animal print wrap skirt.

Chichia London recently received an EFF Innovation Award.