MATTHEW WILLIAMSON FALL WINTER 2015-16 WOMEN’S COLLECTION – LONDON FASHION WEEK

The twelve signs of the zodiac, with all their mystical properties, form the starting point for autumn/winter 2015. The astrological symbolism of star signs played on Matthew’s mind to inform all aspects of the design process – from shapes and colours to embroidery and print.

Silhouettes for the season are feminine: the distinctive shape of Pisces is mimicked in the curves of a draped gown. Floor-sweeping lengths are styled with Mongolian and leopard print furs, then slung nonchalantly over the shoulders, while flashes of skin in deep v-necks and high-split hems bring a focus to new erogenous zones.

Birth stones influence the rich jewel colour palette – from garnet and amethyst to jade and sapphire. Creatures of the zodiac and birth flowers have been painted by hand then layered and intertwined in a style reminiscent of folk prints. The horoscope symbols add a mystical narrative in etched prints and gold bullion threadwork embroidery, inspired by eighteenth century costume.

The aesthetic embodies the bohemian Brit girl, just like the many women who first struck Matthew and the studio’s imagination.