Sheer Inclination–Before the runway show, an atmospheric and serene video projection kicked off the Christopher Raeburn’s spring/summer 2013 show. Featuring two species of white owls with a model as an owl handler wandering around the green hillside, the close-ups of the owls are intercut with detailed close-ups of the parka and backpack worn by the handler. For this season, Raeburn, a designer known to base his functional collections on the sole use of sustainably sourced fabrics from the UK and remakes using re-appropriated surplus and recycled fabrics, created navy and olive parkas using deadstock technical fabrics and re-appropriated military sleeping bags. The serenity and palette of the illustrious owl are reflected in the lightweight show pieces that were all cut and crafted directed from the same white silk parachute: a parka, a macintosh, suit jacket and windbeater. Other functional pieces included the Zig Zag bomber jacket with contrast sleeves and quilted gilet both made from organic jersey and a lightweight blazer made from navy nylon. The signature use of contrast seam taping continued through most of the collection and the “one stripe design” tee was updated into a polo shirt featuring his iconic animal motifs. The one stripe design also continued into a shirt made in premium white and grey cotton. With a collection that is high in both style and function, Christopher Raeburn continues to elevate sustainability to a high fashion level. / Words by Kenny Ho, Fashionisto London Fashion Editor.
