When you spot acclaimed fashion stylist and journalist, Hilary Alexander, at a show, you know the designer is one to watch. And Jeff Garner certainly didn’t disappoint.
A throwback to his Southern roots, the Prophetik Autumn/Winter 2010 collection was inspired by the American Civil War. And it was certainly apparent in many of the ballgowns shown. The first, a recycled silk long black dress with peace silk lining, was both ethereal and beautifully saddening. A perfect piece to start the show.
Whilst much of the audience were mesmerized by these A-line, haunting dresses, it was certainly his sportswear that took centre stage. Wearable and chic, Garner showed us hooded dresses, slashed leggings, jackets… and the relaxed jodhpurs, that were a regular feature on the catwalk, had us dying to get our hands on a pair.
The black and red long halter dress in organic stretch hemp and organic jersey was also a favourite, along with the indigo-dyed blue linen flanker trousers with red piping. Comfortable, yet effortlessly stylish.
Unfortunately, Garners efforts at the constructed more tailored female jodhpurs fell flat, unusual, seeing as though his menswear pieces were so immaculately constructed. We left thinking which waistcoat or cloak we might buy for our better halves from this Heathcliffe-inspired collection.
All in all, Garner’s show was one of great style. Whilst we were fully prepared to be mesmerized by his creative, innovative dresses and use of materials (a mixture of hemp, organic cottons, Greenspun, and indigo-dyed fabrics using plants grown in his own garden in Tennessee), it was his sophisticated sportswear that had us on the edge of our seats.
The collection will be sold at Eco Age, which is run by Colin Firth’s wife, Livia Giuggioli, in West London. If you just buy one piece, make it the hemp / organic cotton jodhpurs.
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