Somerville alumni’s City Group gathered at Selfridge’s, London on 8 October to preview Peter Pilotto’s new collection, try them on and consider a seasonal purchase. Becca-Jane Schofield (2009, Ancient History) reported back.
From the first moment of being ushered into the glamorous surroundings of the Selfridge’s Personal Shopping lounge, and furnished with cocktails, it was clear the Somerville alumni event with Peter Pilotto was destined to be a rousing success. I can think of no better way to spend a rainy Wednesday evening than sipping on Caprinhas and Prosecco as models circulate in beautiful clothes and the designers themselves mingle happily!
The clothes themselves were beautiful. Showing off the distinctive prints that make Peter Pilotto designs so unique, this was an unrivalled chance to examine up close the design details and expert embroidery utilised by Pilotto throughout the collection. Bright colours and intricate prints provided a complement to classically elegant shapes, as hybrid materials such as lace against neoprene made a dramatic yet feminine statement. With cinched waists drawn in by bright ribbons against honeycomb-inspired designs and fit-and-flare shaped dresses, this collection was designed to create a feminine and flattering shape on every woman. Stand out pieces were a full length printed dress combining bright greens and yellows with feminine prints, and a satin graphic-printed coat. With the blurred knits from the Fall/Winter 2014-15 collection making a transition into this Spring collection, these classically tailored pieces will bring a bright splash into a grey English springtime, whilst the delicate embroidery, bright lace and intricate patterning ensures classic style with a modern twist. Minimal styling or make-up is required, as seen on the models; these clothes speak volumes for themselves.
And how wonderful to have seen some trend-setting Somervillians trying on clothes! A personal favourite was the combination of a classic white blouse with an overlay of bright neon lace paired with a brightly patterned neoprene skirt seen on one particularly stylish Law graduate. Designers Christopher de Vos and Peter Pilotto mingled happily and spoke warmly of their love for London, having recently shown their S/S15 collection at London Fashion Week. Thanks must of course go again to Selfridges and Duncan McRae of Flying Colours for providing us with this opportunity, and to the Peter Pilotto team for allowing us to see the collection up close before it hits the shops!
