Roving Reporter: Lyn Devon

Credit crunch, what credit crunch? Well that's what Parsons School of Design alum, Lyn Dereon, tried to convey in her collection. 

"In this economy I want to offer women something that makes them happy and shows that they are optimistic," said Devon. Although the beginning of the collection was full of bursts, and in some cases, top to toe colour, the reference to optimism was not as strong as we saw earlier from the Peter Som show. On the contrary, she does provide a well rounded escapist collection that scream both edgy credibility and stylish sophistication. 

Looking at the first few looks, you are forgiven for thinking that this is another young designer going down the fun, eclectic, ‘edgy’ route. It’s not until the collection develops that you realise how well rounded and sophisticated the collection really is. Its main success lies in its diversity. It caters for both sides of a woman; the side of us that likes to be experimental, slightly edgy and daring but also caters to a woman’s love of structure and simplicity.

The collection successful demonstrated all of the key staples that we expect from the fall shows but with an individual twist. Key pieces like the purple high wasted skirt were modernised by being teaming with wet look metallics, a key trend from last season. The presentation served us with all of the key wardrobe foundation pieces; the classic trouser suit, the perfect winter coat and the tailored trouser.

I have never been a fan of hounds tooth prints because it takes me back to horrible childhood memories. Let’s just say school photo day and my mum getting a bit happy in Gap kids. Need I say anymore? Despite my consequent phobia of anything hounds tooth, I think I am converted after seeing Devon’s structured strapless hounds tooth dress.

With trousers we were spoilt for choice. Devon explores both extremes, showing the much celebrated peg leg from last season, as well as my personal favourite wide leg in dark grey.

The silhouettes were classic and structured without lacking in creativity and flair. Despite the simplicity of the collection it exuded sophistication and marks Devon as a designer to watch.