The Antoni & Alison “How Can I Be You” presentation at Somerset House was one of the most creative and in-depth presentations I saw throughout the duration of Fashion Week.
While most presentations are just about showing off latest collections, Antoni & Alison’s wasn't just about the clothes, but more about the women who wear them.
The presentation was in the form of a quirky and simplistic film, displayed on roughly 15 flat screen televisions. Antoni excitedly fluttered about the room, explaining the "How Can I Be You?" concept and philosophy that any woman can look the part of whatever she wants to be.
But more importantly, that women can truly be whatever they want and that their clothes just give them “the look”.
The model on screen is 19-years-old with beautiful flame red hair, and we're shown a stream of alternating images of her wearing all of the different clothes that match her skills and interests.
The voiceover for the film is our lovely ginger girl - so full of diversity and style - in a Q&A session about what she is interested in. As we learn from the film, and from the different key items of the collection, is tha the Antoni & Alison woman is many, many things.
For example, she is...
- A folk singer
- A writer
- A collector of vintage clothes
- Nurses sick animals
- Very good at maths
- A runner
- An archivist
- Into martial arts
- Grows her own vegetables
When asked if she is a writer, she says, “Yes, I am writing a book about Sylvia Plath – I have a cat and like to wear real tweeds."
When asked if she is a folk singer, she replies. “Yeah... all I need is my existential black roll neck sweater and a guitar."
Does she do martial arts?
“Yes, I have a got a black belt in Judo. I also have Kung Fu dresses and Karate jumpers.”
What about maths?
"Yes... I find all numbers fascinating, I like using my grey matter and I have a jumper that reflects this.
Essentially, the Alison & Antoni girl is very much about what BitchBuzz embodies. She’s kicking ass, and taking names, but with fluffy kittens and her home-grown vegetables - because she’s a macrobiotic vegan, don’t you know.
The clothes are simply brilliant. Silk printed day dresses, scarves and skirts are matched with “complex intarcia knits” with “plain” and classic pieces. The collection is a work of graphic art that manages to be comfortable, gorgeous and cutting edge all at the same time.
I loved everything Antoni & Alison’s presentation and collection had to offer- not only because it embraced the fierce diversity of women, but because of Antoni & Alison's enthusiasm and dedication to the concept.
Whether it’s a coin purse asking you not to litter, or a sweater that just says CAT, Antoni & Alison have a little something for everyone, whether you’re “very good at maths” or a just a “soft anarchist”.
All presentation images © BitchBuzz.com
"Writer" and "Vintage Collector" images © Antoni & Alison