Irish designer Paul Costelloe brought a touch of equestrian sophistication to London Fashion Week’s Autumn-Winter 2025 showcase. Drawing inspiration from his earlier collection titled “Dressage,” Costelloe infused his latest designs with vintage elegance and a modern, daring twist. The collection featured jodhpur-shaped culottes, classic tweeds, and playful prints of show jumpers, blending tradition with bold innovation. Structured, dressage-inspired jackets paired effortlessly with skirts and shorts, complemented by caps and tall boots to emphasize the equestrian theme. Adding a softer touch, feminine coats and voluminous dresses made their way down the runway, balancing structure with fluidity. Costelloe’s color palette embraced the warmth of autumn, featuring shades of brown, amber, red, cream, and black. The designs also showcased a mix of check patterns and delicate florals, creating a sophisticated yet playful aesthetic.
Turkish designer Bora Aksu presented a collection inspired by Austrian-Hungarian Empress Elisabeth, known for her artistic and misunderstood nature. Aksu’s designs paid homage to her romantic and poetic side through intricately embroidered chiffon and lace pieces. The collection was predominantly crafted in tones of white, cream, red, purple, and blue, bringing a regal air to the runway. Models wore structured coats and jackets, paired with flowing, tiered skirts and delicate blouses adorned with bows. Layered frocks and face-veiling accessories enhanced the ethereal feel, while long gloves added a vintage touch reminiscent of 19th-century elegance.
London Fashion Week, running from February 20 to 24, marks the second major stop on the global fashion calendar, following New York and preceding Milan and Paris. Known for fostering emerging talent, London’s fashion scene also boasts established brands such as Burberry, Erdem, and Roksanda. This season, in an effort to support designers commercially, a dedicated pop-up shop on Regent Street will showcase innovative collections and provide a platform for exposure.
Amid ongoing challenges related to post-Brexit trade barriers, the British fashion industry remains resilient. The pop-up shop initiative underscores the importance of promoting local talent and celebrating creativity during this pivotal moment for the UK fashion scene.
READ MORE: