Photos – Sophia Webster archives (c)
AW17 Sophia Webster introduces this season’s muse: The Ice Queen. Akin to Elsa, the influential and iconic heroine of the animation Frozen, she is self-assured, independent and fearless. Opalescent baroque embossed fabrics and plush velvet with crystal tiara detailing are symbolic of her monarchical status, whilst spiky, crystal encrusted straps and chunky platform snow boots allude to her tenacious nature. These elements, alongside the glacial colour palette of arctic white, pastel glitters and ice blue suede, unite to reflect the Queen’s regal but frosty persona.
Soho’s Vinyl Factory at the epicentre of London Fashion Week sets the stage for this tale; an unassuming record shop unexpectedly leads to a Narnia-esque, enchanting snowy landscape. The venue’s frosted glass ceiling alongside wintry neon lighting cocoon an igloo wonderland inspired by the Harbin Ice Festival in China – one of British accessories designer’s dream destinations.
Arctic yet opulent faux fur coats, tulle gowns and imperial crowns are accompanied by flushed cheeks and wet, glossy lashes.
“As a brand known for colour, for some time I’ve wanted to use a more minimalist backdrop, and a snow landscape was the perfect scenario. It’s unexpected territory for me to showcase products against white, but visualising this gave me new perspective when creating the AW17 collection,” says Sophia Webster.
