LFW: The ‘W’ Factor Series

This ran for five days straight and I was the only ‘W’ factor judge present. The other judges are yourselves, it’s up to you to decide. All the designs are being critiqued on their ‘wearability’ factor. Please be aware scoring low on the ‘wearability’ scale does NOT mean designs are less technically creative or less stylish than another. This is subjective in that it just boils down to whether I (or you) would wear the piece or designs.

There were many contestants (designers) seen, around 28 shows over the five days and whittled them down to the final 10. This wasn’t a chore in the slightest; it was an honour, although my feet would disagree!

It’s down to you the public to vote for your winner of the ‘W’ factor LFW SS12. Cast your vote via email or comment on this page.

The moment has arrived….are you ready for London Fashion Week SS12…?!

Ladies and Gentlemen it’s timmmme for the W factorrrrr!!!!! (said in a shout-ey Dermot O’Leary presenter voice)The final 10 in no particular order are! (in the same Dermot voice)

Contestant No.1 – Teatum Jones
Sometimes it snow in April collection

This presentation was a pleasant surprise and off the beaten LFW track but I went along at the last minute. This British designer’s third season was in tune with the on schedule designers; silk prints, flowing fabrics etc etc. I give Teatum Jones 7 out of 10 for ‘wearability’. She definitely has what it takes to be a star.

Contestant No. 2 – Basso & Brooke
Power Prints collection

Now onto their 12^th season this dynamic duo are seasoned professionals. Their trademark is bold print and I’m a lover of bold print and colour so this definitely had the ‘W’ factor for me. Great shapes and draping, 8 of out 10 – really enjoyed this collection. One thing, would have preferred no sunglasses with these looks.

Contestant No. 3 – Ashley Isham
A collection inspired by the Rococo period and Thomas Chippendale

I hadn’t seen anything from this designer previously and was extremely impressed with this show. His designs kept my attention and I wanted to see more. Great presentation. Florence Welch and Lady Gaga have worn his creations. 6 out of 10 for ‘wearability’.

Contestants No. 4-6 are a collective called Fashion Mode: Carlotta Actis Barone, James Hilman and Florian Jayet

I have a real soft spot for this trio of designers – and fell in love with them last season. Florian Jayet was my fave last time. This season it was Carlotta Actis Barone. They score lower on wearability but off the charts for stunning designs! I would wear Carlotta’s pieces. James Hilman’s menswear is also very wearable collection. And check out the heel-less shoes!! Adore! My ‘W’ factor score is 6 out of 10.

Carlotta Actis Barone

James Hilman

Florian Jayet

Contestant No. 7 – Bunmi Koko
Allure of the Sirens collection

Last season I missed her show which had rave reviews. Her 2^nd season was a joy to watch. Some of the models didn’t match the quality of this collection. Her clothes rated high on the ‘W’ factor. Many pieces I’d have no qualms in wearing. This was a gorgeous and vibrant collection. 8 out of 10.

Contestant No. 8 – Todd Lynn

This designer is a fave of the A-list. He finishes his garments beautifully. The models worked those 6inch Christian Louboutins like they were ballerinas – respect! Great models and I loved this collection. Many pieces are very wearable as they had structure and flow. 9 out of 10.

Contestant No. 9 – Aminaka Wilmont

These designers showed on the mainstage at BFC and have a loyal following of fans. I’m not a lover of florals but they gave theirs a mean paint splattered edge (fab bootees and jackets). This collection scores lower on wearability (skinny girls only) but was a collection many will love. 4 out of 10.

Contestant No. 10 – Ziad Ghanem

This show blew everyone in Vauxhall Fashion Scout’s Freemason’s Hall. His models were all performers of sorts of all sizes and cross-genders. He blends Couture, Costume design and the Avant-Garde so beautifully. I would naturally have scored this low if he had used professional models, but what Ziad Ghanem has done is genius. He designs outside of our mindset and demonstrates they can work on a wide range of people – as it’s all about personality, confidence and being able to adapt. This show had the best energy everybody left on a high!  10 out of 10.

London Fashion Week’s off-schedule shows are the heartbeat of all the fashion weeks. I have thoroughly enjoyed this season because of them. This series of the ‘W’ factor had much more than sensible ‘wearability’. The designers featured, all scored 10 out of 10 for the ‘WOW’ factor.

Don’t forget to cast your votes for your winner.

For more on LFW go to my blog at WWW.KARMA-STYLEBLOG.BLOGSPOT.COM

-Camille Adomakoh

Fashion Mode, Todd Lynn, Bunmi Koko and Ziad Ghanem images: Courtesy of Yohanna Akladious