Fall 2013 London Fashion Week: Temperley London

- By Sarah-Leigh Wade -

Following on from her spring/summer collection – an elegant offering of striped full skirts and symmetrical filigree on sophisticated gowns – Alice Temperley chose to develop the theme for autumn/winter 13. More structured, yes, layering options, of course, deeper tones, yep, but the sophisticated femininity and dedication to showing a little daywear alongside occasionwear remained.

Hitchcock’s Tippi Hedren was the inspiration this season, cue impeccably turned out ensembles in complimentary tonal hues or prints. Matching separates wasn’t so much the focal point, rather than picking out key colours and allowing them to inform print after print, look after look. Unusual for an autumn/winter collection, white-on-white looks and pale tones of turquoise and powder blue sat beautifully alongside ebony and cobalt blue.

Sky-high yet simple pumps by Charlotte Olympia formed the obvious footwear choice; emerald green with a diamond print a firm favourite. The swing coats were also a particular highlight, seen in all over prints or bold block colour, knee-length or cropped and swung nonchalantly around the shoulders. Prints were also a focus, starting with bold tonal stripes, chevrons and diagonal checks, moving in to digital all-over-prints and considered embroideries – a little bit Deco, a little bit Nouveau.

Of course, the gown finale was something to be marvelled over. A silvery slip dress with long sleeves and a scallop-like cascading print was evocative of a bygone era, while a simple black silk maxi with a cape back and embellished bib collar worn with edgy black leather gloves will be snapped up by advocates and retailers alike. Collars were a sticking point, with inverted lapels and sheer embellished panels adding intrigue.

Based just outside London, Sarah-Leigh Wade is an editor and brand consultant working with trend forecasting organisations and international retailers, specialising in digital media. Sarah-Leigh launched her popular eponymous blog Sarah-LeighsStyleFiles.com in 2009 and is an advocate of emerging talent, vintage fashion and the arts. You can follow her on Twitter @SarahLeighW

Photos courtesy of Style.com