When it comes to colour, Danish designer Jens Laugesen is known for keeping his palette uncomplicated and simple, contrasting solely black with white and that’s exactly what he did last Friday. Taking inspiration from neo-classical Danish Painter Wilhelm Hammershoj, Laugesen presented a stark collection which in his own words was for the “intelligent consumer. An intellectual collection it was and with the aid of weather instrumentals Laugesen built a cold and surreal atmosphere in which the models slowly stormed down the catwalk amidst heckling and catcalling from the photographers…(I dont know how they managed to stay professional!)

This emerging brand has real personality as their catwalk show on Thursday demonstrated. With a dominant Tibetan influence it didn’t take long for evidence of this talented pair’s skill in tailoring to become apparent as fresh-faced models styled with long plaits, furry asymmetrical hats and medallion-decorated belts set the scene for a collection of elegant jackets and coats to steal the show. Blazers that were traditional in cut came in soft red, as if faded by the sun, and a loose-fitted cornflower blue jacket had sharp pleating on a skirt-like back. Contrasts between coarse and delicate fabrics added life to the dominant palette of red and brown – layers of pale ruffled chiffon were glimpsed under heavy leather and patterned fabric coats. Further textural interest came from thick-knitted scarves and a silky printed fabric that appeared in shirts, dresses and even cropped men’s trousers. As the designs became more monochrome for eveningwear the delicate red white and brown print played a larger visual role. The fusion of cultures really worked, and the reason is because SteveJ & YoniP have not made too much of a caricature of their influences. The show was refreshingly different – whether setting trends or following their own path I think we’ll all be snapping up pieces from this collection come September. Photography by Charmaine Mok