Underground in Dalston’s EartH Hall, an electronic baseline begins. Mark Fast, a designer renowned for his luxury, form-fitting knitwear, returns to London Fashion Week with a collection that imbues the pulsing energy of the club scene with the elemental power of the coastline. 

Fast cites particular inspiration in sea glass— debris that time and the tide transform into something desirable. This principle of metamorphosis guides the collection. Thick braided knit, that recalls sailing ropes and fishing nets, is molded into sensual dresses, skirts and tops that contour the body. Here, skilled craftsmanship and intentional yarn selection transforms what in other hands might be weighty and utilitarian into sculptural elegance. Varying textures also add further dimension to these looks. Fringe detailing moves hypnotically as the models walk, and cascading chiffon ripples on the runway, fluid as water.

The colour palette is also informed by this aquatic aesthetic, featuring washed corals and pinks, stone greys, soft blues, and even a bleached denim that could’ve been weathered by the sun. Providing an edgy contrast, other garments are a distinctly nocturnal black, befitting a nightlife collection. 

Sexy and dynamic, SS26 is for the women who continue to dance even through trying times. Like sea glass, they emerge from pressure more beautiful than before, in knitwear that is both shield and statement. 

Words By: Carolina Fernandez
Images Courtesy: Lobby PR