London Fashion Week kicked off in style with Irish designer Paul Costelloe transporting fashion enthusiasts to a whimsical Paris for his Spring-Summer 2025 collection. The 79-year-old designer, renowned for his timeless aesthetic, presented a pastel-hued line titled “Le ciel est bleu” (the sky is blue), focusing on shades of blue, pink, yellow, and green. The collection, inspired by Parisian couture and the late sixties and early seventies, captured youthful energy while introducing Costelloe’s new bridal line.
Against a backdrop of a painted Parisian boulevard, models strutted down the runway in checkered linen ensembles, tweed dresses, playful jacquard frocks, and intricately designed floral prints. Ruffles and elegant silhouettes dominated the collection, exuding the lightness of spring. Costelloe reflected on his connection to the Parisian couture scene, noting, “This collection kind of reflects that period,” as he paid homage to his formative years in fashion.
Meanwhile, Turkish-born designer Bora Aksu unveiled a collection deeply rooted in personal inspiration. His tribute to his mother was evident in the intricately embroidered, layered feminine looks that adorned the runway. Aksu’s collection featured tailored jackets with puffy or patterned shoulders and sleeves, paired with lace and draped dresses that offered a romantic yet sophisticated flair.
Sticking to a soft color palette of white, pale pink, yellow, and blue, Aksu balanced the pastels with bursts of bright red and navy, infusing his designs with contrast and vibrancy. The designer’s attention to detail, especially in floral embroidery, highlighted his craftsmanship, offering a collection that seamlessly combined nostalgia with modern elegance.
As London Fashion Week marks its 40th anniversary, it continues to celebrate creativity and innovation, with designers like Costelloe and Aksu at the forefront. The event officially began with a party featuring singer Charli XCX, launching a new collection by high street retailer H&M. With iconic labels such as Burberry, Erdem, and Simone Rocha lined up, this year’s event promises to showcase the best of British fashion.
The British Fashion Council, which first launched London Fashion Week in 1984, remains committed to promoting British designers and celebrating the city’s fashion heritage. BFC Chief Executive Caroline Rush noted, “It’s known for its entrepreneurship, its creativity, and freedom of expression. Those are the hallmarks of British fashion, and that’s what you’re going to be seeing over the next five days at London Fashion Week.”
As London Fashion Week unfolds, it continues to serve as a platform for designers to bring their creative visions to life, captivating audiences and solidifying the city’s role as a global fashion hub.
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