Anko Chapter One On a chilly evening in London, Anko unveiled its debut collection, Chapter One, within the grand setting of The HAC Bow church. With its gothic arches and hushed reverence, the venue provided the perfect backdrop for a collection that celebrated both strength and grace, making a bold statement about the brand’s vision.
The 28-look collection was an ode to meticulous tailoring and structural design. From voluminous dresses to corseted silhouettes, Chapter One brought a cohesive yet diverse array of garments that showcased the designer- Felix Inala’s understanding of femininity, comfort, and bold elegance.
One standout piece was a brown two-piece ensemble; a tweed high-waisted skirt with boning that cinched the waist and created a sculpted silhouette. It was paired with a metallic bronze top, blending soft textures with a sharp edge. The attention to structure continued with dresses that featured boned corsets, emphasizing the waist and adding a sense of architectural sophistication.
A two-piece red suit was another highlight of the collection. Its harnessed back, designed to cinch and tie at the front, brought an avant-garde twist to traditional tailoring. Paired with flowing palazzo pants, it struck the perfect balance between sharp tailoring and effortless movement. Complementing this was a flowing red cape dress, airy and dramatic, which swept down the runway like a vision of power and poise.
Denim also played a starring role. A structured jacket with puffed sleeves, paired with knee-high boots, pushed the boundaries of everyday denim into high fashion territory. The collection’s consistency in shape and detail was evident in every piece, from the silk tops with bell sleeves paired with flowing black palazzo pants to the recurring use of chunky gold buttons, adding a regal touch to the designs.
Fabrics like taffeta, tweed, crepe, leather, and cotton were thoughtfully chosen to enhance the collection’s narrative. The interplay of textures, from the softness of silk to the sturdiness of tweed, created a tactile richness that spoke to the designer’s commitment to craftsmanship.
Anko’s design philosophy was clear: a cinched waist and a strong silhouette could coexist with comfort and fluidity. This intentionality was carried through every look, ensuring that each garment felt both wearable and aspirational.
The collection also reflected an understanding of diversity in its model lineup, though there’s still room for more inclusivity in sizing. The runway celebrated individuality and personality, with models exuding confidence and poise in garments that felt like extensions of their character.
For a debut collection, Chapter One did more than establish Anko’s presence; it set a precedent. With a balance of structure and fluidity, tradition and innovation, the brand has firmly positioned itself as one to watch. This is just the beginning, and if the debut is any indication, the chapters to follow will be nothing short of extraordinary.
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