PPQ Fall/Winter 2013
London Fashion Week
Written and Photographed by Lucy Topping

PPQ Clothing managed an impressive task with their autumn/winter 2013 offering. Amalgamating distinct Sixties influences with contemporary twists, the collection was comprised of chic, wearable pieces showcasing a definable PPQ aesthetic.

Showing right on schedule in the Courtyard Showspace at Somerset House, to say the show was a popular one amongst press, celebrities, and bloggers alike would be a serious understatement. Swing coats with contrasting detailing and oversized jackets were thrown over cocktail dresses, creating a polished, retro look complemented with beehive hairstyles and black ribbon bows. A nod to the Eighties was also present in jackets with boxy shoulder pads and zippered pockets in vibrant canary yellows. Offset with a bold use of print, these are not looks for the shy, retiring wallflower.

A PPQ show would not be a PPQ show without a selection of exquisite party dresses on display, and I’m happy to say this season did not disappoint. Mini dresses came in an array of jewel hues, complete with cut-out shoulders, high-neck lines, and multi-colored psychedelic prints - design features which could appear somewhat dated but which PPQ managed to make look fresh and relevant for 2013.

Looks as glamorous and daring as some of these need little in the way of accessories. Angled-placed wide-brimmed hats, long appliquéd floral gloves, and a scattering of jewels complemented the garments, providing a subtle extension of each look as opposed to an eye-catching distraction. Stiletto-heeled sling backs were the shoes of choice, complete with pointed toe and frontal embellishment; these were the epitome of statement footwear.

Peaches Geldof, Marina Diamandis, Gizzi Erskine, Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Brix Smith Start were all seated on the front row. After PPQ offered up a collection as incredible as this one, it's very little wonder just why they had such a star-studded front row this season.

For more of PPQ Clothing, visit http://www.ppqclothing.com.