Anya Hindmarch Fall 2011 – London Fashion Week Review

The last time I covered London Fashion Week, I noted that the creative presentations – and not the runway shows – are what made the collections shine in the English capital. Anya Hindmarch’s latest collection pushed this idea much further. Primarily known for her handbag designs, Hindmarch showcased her Autumn/Winter 2011 collection through a whimsical “House of Intrigue” concept that took over Benjamin Franklin’s former residence near Trafalgar Square.

(photo by Yuan-Kwan Chan / Meniscus Magazine)

Accessories aside for a moment, one of the staff members gave much credit to the creative director for Hindmarch’s latest presentation. Equally as delightful as the historical house were the details scattered amongst the rooms. Mirrors doubled as video displays screening advertisements from Hindmarch’s latest collection. A small peephole in cabinet closet, which displayed coats on hangers and bags stored inside, revealed on a closer inspection a video projection of bag with moths flying around (while in the closet itself next to the bags, a mouse – thankfully, inanimate – stood alongside a mouse trap. A Hindmarch-branded player piano and phonographs provided a soundtrack throughout the three floors. Guests were treated to complimentary brunches, manicures and old-fashioned candy from glass jars.

While the house nearly upstaged the accessories, thankfully the latter were not difficult to miss, with some bags dangling off indoor tree branches and even a fur hat cheekily placed atop the head of a Benjamin Franklin bust. Practicality ruled but did not interfere with Hindmarch’s pieces, which mostly comprised bags and coats. Soft leathery clutches revealed practical details such as an easy-to-reach zippered compartment with clearly marked labels for cards, coins and a mobile phone, or a foldable leather drawstring bag with a long shoulder strap for multiple uses.

Video: Anya Hindmarch Fall 2011 Collection
video by Yuan-Kwan Chan / Meniscus Magazine