Me - It's not like as an adult you can have a top with a cat on it. That (the dress above) is a chic, grown up, edgy version...David - And you must consider what a cat on your tshirt means...
Me - It means I love cats... and maybe I have 50 or so at home.
David - ... and I smell of cat... and dead cat... as I have so many cats I can't find it....
Me - ummmm I think you took it too far.
David - (looks bashful) I always take it too far!
I think David Longshaw's imagination runs away with him, which I don't think is a bad thing at all - after all it is his story's that spring board his collections.
His Spring Summer 2011 does not disappoint - 'Well basically there is a bunch of hoodlums...' these female hoodies decide to go on a day trip to a stately home. But it is closed so they break in. They planned to perform petty crime and vandalism but instead are drawn in by opulent garments. They decide to dress up...
This story influences the prints through the collection - the girl with two fags wearing a ruff and feathers and pug dogs. Feathers and subtle frills, prints of dogs and smoking girls all come together in beautiful hues of blue and purple. As well as illustration prints there are interesting 3D textures of feathers and knit by Lily Hibbert.
The silhouette was inspired by sportswear - remember what 'hoodlums' usually wear... I really like the relaxed but structured nature of the pieces. I am very drawn in by the colours used.
Kirsty Ward, in another collaboration, has designed the jewellery. Hardware with lilac and blue felt folds - again remember the 'bling bling' usually supported by 'hoodlums'...
I really like this collection and the story behind it - I hope you do to! David will be exhibiting in Paris with Vauxhall Fashion Scout - if you get the chance to chat to him - do!To see some lookbook images head to the Vauxhall Fashion Scout Blog.
Best Wishes
Fashion Fantasist xx
