London Fashion week is here again & this time it’s Autumn Winter looks for 2014/15. We’ve picked trends that are in some way or anther disability friendly. It’s just for women but to give the men a treat we’ve included at the end, a shirt range called Tobias, by the team that is Charlie Allen. They’re ready to wear and made to measure (if required) – so will fit any shape and keep you on trend boys!
First off we’ve looked at fabrics, as velvet and leather seem to be in evidence and we like this a lot. Velvet because it’s lovely to touch and gives a sensuality to a dress which isn’t just about shape. Leather because it’s hard wearing, always looks good, gives structure and is somewhat protective when in a chair. It’s useful in wet weather, (easy to wipe off the mud) which is something we’re going to have to get used to if the climate change experts are right?? High cinched-in waists with thick bands were all over the place and add core stability, if you need it, if not it just shows off a womanly figure for a change.
Next we looked at shapes; short coats and the occasional cape are again useful for those sitting. Skater skirts are not entirely over but tulip shapes and longer lengths are a welcome addition as they give room to move and are all welcome to a “seated stylista”. Frills and ruffles are also a trend that adds some interest to a shift dress along with the occasional dash of colour amongst the deep red tones and ubiquitous black.
Thankfully Baggy Jumpers are also still around in greys, YSL Blue & here in ivory:
We also looked out for shoe trends and thank goodness it’s not all high heels… I really hope some of these get into the shops as they look as though they can fit any foot, swollen or not:
Finally as promised, the shirt range by Tobias produced by friend of BBS Charlie Allen, who gave some useful tips on disability fashion for men (applicable to women as well):-
This is his new venture Tobias – The Shirt Artisans, where different fabrics & prints are mixed into one shirt. Not shown here but the dark blue cotton shirt with black jersey sleeves was a favourite of Lieutenant No.2’s! All the shirts can be bought at his premises in Coopers Yard, Upper Street where they can also be altered to fit any shape or size. Take a look at their FB page as well .
Thats all for now until we see what’s on the catwalk for Day 3 & 4. Topshop Unique are showing at 3pm Sunday, on line and is open to the general public at the Tate. It’s also being shown in 3D in their Oxford Street store windows. A great way to make fashion accessible to all!