This season, the University of Salford presented collections from thirteen MA graduate designers at their London Fashion Week runway show held at Phonica Records in Soho.
Spanning themes of body modification, the queer rave scene, and the history of the Femme Fatale – The University of Salford showcased a roster of fresh designers expressing cultural and political issues through innovative design. Here are some of our highlights:
First up, Patrick Garstang @garstangg, who opened proceedings, honoring the grotesque beauty of extreme body modification, whilst drawing inspiration pulled from Garstang’s experiences in the Manchester queer rave scene. A sartorial celebration of the human body in both its natural and surgically enhanced forms, this collection evokes shared memories of pure, queer, ecstasy.
Anna Salad @salted.greens explored the concept of gaining riches and wealth through others’ naivete to demonstrate the falsity surrounding online money manipulation. Think streetwear-inspired garms in splendid expensive liquid gold from head to toe.
Anna Li @h.w.li_ Inspired by contrast, Li’s collection beautifully merges traditional and futuristic designs. Presenting ethereal tulle skirts overlaid with interlocking skeletal details, reminiscent of industrial chains, Li reminds us of the close proximity of both past and future.
Millie Renshaw @emrenuk This collection, entitled ‘Billy Big Rig,’ is the romanticization of the trucker lifestyle exploring the freedom of the open road. The inspiration for the collection was driven by the ingenuity and individuality of each cabin they call home.
Jade Williams @jadewillsss___ In a stigmatized society, Williams identifies social issues surrounding teenage pregnancy. ‘Rebellious Adolescence’ explores negative misconceptions and challenges through clothing.
Rebecca Hearne @becky__hearne ‘Forbidden Fruit’ explores the controversial and provocative history of the ‘Femme Fatale.’ A love letter to the “Disastrous Women” whose stories have been reduced by this narrative.
Ryan Greenwood @j.notion created a narrative based on the Ancient Tea Horse Road through a functional menswear collection interconnecting beauty behind photography and the harsh reality that molds ‘the tea porter’s lives. Off-white fits with avant-garde detailing brought this collection to life.
Finally, Mark Buendia @navoradesigns closed the runway with a sensational collection based on the Philippine jeepney, “Le Parcours”. A narrative about enjoying life’s journey to reach success. This collection is a colorful celebration of ascension, with oversized and vibrant hats in bold pink, green, and orange to create the impression of excessive, elegant birds.
Words Lewis Robert Cameron
Production // @richardthornn
Design Collective // @salfordfashiondesign
Production team // @rachelallen___
Pr // @dyelogpr
Photographer // @lee_smyth_
Music // @airysomething
Hair // lead @brendanssalon using @unite_hair
Makeup // @michellewebbmakeup for @aofmakeup Using @dermalogicauk
