Whenever attending a graduate show I can’t help but be slightly apprehensive about what will be on offer for the next 30 minutes. Ravensbourne completely knocked this prejudice down and blew me away with the collections they showed. When you can remain excited for the entire duration of a graduate show, you know that they are on to winning formula and these kids are set for big things. Some of the most successful designers have graduated from Ravensbourne, including Stella McCartney and creative director of Calvin Klein, Kevin Carrigan. The class of 2013 certainly didn’t disappoint. I could happily ramble on about every collection in reams of detail but I’ll try to keep it short with a cherry picked selection of my favourites. Be assured though, whether mentioned or not, that all graduates who showed left me impressed and assured that they had a dazzling future ahead for each of them.
Myvany Everett
Exploring the lines that flow through the human form, Myvany Everett created something architectural whilst retaining a sense of fluidity. Shapes and silhouettes were sporty and fused with an air of femininity made for a strong collection right from the beginning.
Luke Harris
One of the darkest collections of the show but brought a new perspective on sinister influences. Harris has interned with Keko Hainswheeler creating outfits for Lady Gaga already so he has already gained notable attention. Models stormed out in black ensembles, some accompanied by caged headwear, chains and devices of chastity. The first thing that sprang to mind was a reminder of the late, great McQueen, not only due to its dark and slightly evil mood but the technical details, as well as the idea of ceremony and androgyny.
Chloe Culpin
One of my favourite graduates from the entire show, Chloe combined two of my favourite things: minimalism and embellishment. Two polar opposites on the design spectrum, yet together created looks that were illustrious and intelligent. The grid embellishments had to be my favourite looks from the entire show.
Patricia Williams
It was a futuristic story with Patricia William’s collection. A clean palette of yellow, white and grey allowed for the details to steal the show. Sharp architectural silhouettes exuded power and the segmentation of padded leather alongside zips and graphic lines created new shapes that were both intriguing and alluring.
Colin Moore
If there’s one thing London does well it’s colour. And knitwear. And experimentation. So seeing Colin’s hyper-coloured men’s knitwear was a joy to behold (not least for the bunny patterns on the shorts and jumpers!). Cute but with attitude, either way these knits are total hits in my book.
Jack Bebbington
When the first look of your collection is a teal-fur, American football style silhouette you immediately sit up and take notice. Jack’s menswear used fur predominantly throughout, whether that was as an accent on a printed shirt or a huge coat with monstrous fur arms. I am usually the naysayer when it comes to men in fur. Jack Bebbington has converted me. Just call me a Furry. Well not that kind of Furry.
– Jazzino Tamani
