Advice from a Pro: Be Your Own Critic

Backstage with John Rocha, I learned two things: The man loves Cate Blanchett in Elizabeth (what sane person doesn't?), and he grows hyper-critical of his work after fashion week.


"I do feel this is one of the best collections I've done," he said, dressed in the same black blazer he's worn at FW for years. "If I design something and I don't like it, how can I convince anyone else to like it? I did it, I love what I did, and we move on.

"In a few weeks time when I start on my spring collection, I'll look back and say, ooh, that was a bit dodgy. But being able to say that is what makes you a better designer."

So there you have it, budding fashion stars: You'll need a healthy sense of self-judgment to make it in the style scene. That, and a great sense of personal taste. "Love your bag," Rocha told me before I left for Qasimi. Thanks, Johnny.

Roving Reporter: Qasimi

After running to the wrong venue (I went to the party venue rather than the show, stupid I know), I finally made it to the Qasimi show in Baker Street this afternoon. I'm tired and the great news is- it's only day two.

I love the way designers are using the location of their shows to develop an idea or concept in their show. Last season, Stefano Pilati showed his collection for YSL in a cage like space, linking to this season's most talked about 'cage shoe'. Today the show was in an old church, developing the gothic influences.


It's hard to believe that design duo, H. H Khalid bin Sultan and Elliott J. Freeze, only started their brand in August 2007. Their debut collection in February for sping/summer 2009 receieved raving reviews, making the brand a firm favourite amongst fashion industry insiders. Erin O'Conner made another appearance on the catwalk for the duo, after convincing her to walk for their debut spring/summer collection.


The duo definately know how to work with a trend, run with and make it even better. The collection referenced the dark romance and 90s goth influences that has been doing the rounds over the past week. Leather appeared in abundance on dramatic multi layer dresses, waistcoats and on headwear. Menswear was exquisite. Male models were dressed in slim line tuxedo jackets layered over a black waistcoat and shirt.


It's not surprising that Khalid is architecturally trained. The detail in the corsetry on the dresses and the designers experimentation with leather was exquisite, not to mention the major Harry Winston blingage that was going on.

It was refreshing to see a brand not fall victim to the pressure the economy is having on designers. The collection was far from understated and the design duo were not apologetic about it. Qasimi is definatelty "luxury without compromise". "The brand has a classic air to it but the cut and fit is very contemporary- pure lines which posses a high degree of sophistication and elegance" says Khalid.

Seen and Overheard: Models Unite

Sometimes it's surprisingly hard to find Lily Cole at London Fashion Week (maybe she's off on more French Playboy shoots), but luckily enough, we've spotted her with a handful of other big-name models of all generations.

Lily Cole modeled in the Qasimi show today, with Erin O'Connor opening and Jaquetta Wheeler and Jasmine Guinness walking later. Even Yasmin Le Bon took a surprise turn on the runway, with hubby Simon watching front-row.

But none of the girls got as big of a cheer as Carmen Dell'Orifice, the legendary model who still sparkles at 70+. The Harry Winstons on her neck didn't hurt...