The Stitch Drops and Ladders

I love knitwear. It's practical, snuggly and slouchy. The name I often love to call is that of the creative charlie of the knit factory Mr Mark Fast. I absolutely love what he stands for - I'm referring to his stand against the size 0 model, by bringing Haley Morley back (size 12) to the runway exhibiting his A/W 2010 collection, to repeatedly have his name dragged by the media. 

His collections are vocal and imaginative. He shows he understands a woman's figure by sheerly clinging his clothes to it, after all, all women love to fit snuggly in a slinky number. Back to technique - using a domestic knitting machine, he breathes life back into knitwear. Making it exciting and practical with blends such as lycra and wool, viscose and silk and the use of open weaved fabrics. Innovation that seems reminiscent of that of the early 60's and 70's works of designers such as Missoni and Laura Biagiotti. 

Mark is artistic and playful. He always adds an atmosphere that pops to his shows, may it be the rainbow of  knits strolling down the runway or the sour, purse lipped looks on the front row as he unveils his latest shocker.

Craig Lawrence, a fellow former CSM student, was picked by Mark Fast as "One of the creative forces of London" by i-d magazine. Debuting at LFW 09 with Blow 'Presents' showcase. A winner of the Topshop NEWGEN sponsorship regime that year. 

His clothes are beautiful. Particularly his A/W 2010 collection. It never fails to captivate me. I love the combination of texture that results in a variation of high and low rise areas. The light delicately shimmers off the tiers of fringing, elongating the female figure ultimately complimenting her.  It's just so free and expressive which to me just shows his passion and skill. 

Ok people NEWGEN's one to watch list has been revealed. A duo that I will be watching is Alice Lee. They have been getting fashion recognition from around 2002, and are currently stocked by Browns and Harrods. I feel like innovation and adaptation is the running thread through these artists. I particularly love the family feeling in this brand, it's gonna be a sticker. Handcrafted, bespoke sexy what's not to love about this design house. They will be showing at LFW in association with Vauxhall Fashion Scouts 'Ones to Watch' show this September. 

It's exciting to see a monster unleash havoc on traditional knitting traditions and techniques. This is what the fashion world needs. To recognise it's audience, love them and embrace change by leading it. 


GIA