WOOL MAKES IT'S MARK

The London Collections wrapped up their Autumn Winter 2014/2015 season last week and provided not only the perfect stage for designers such as Lou Dalton, Christopher Raeburn and Jonathon Saunders to showcase their creations, but to tell their story using one of the oldest and most versatile fabrics: wool. 

The Woolmark company (who has been involved with the Mens collections since its inception), owned by the Australian Wool Innovation (AWI), a not-for-profit company owned by 25,000 woolgrowers, collaborated with designers in a bid to promote merino wool within the luxury sector and the results did not disappoint. 

Although the fabric, in essence remained the same, each designer's interpretation was distinct in creativity and execution and demonstrated the versatility of wool for the season that demands the unique properties, such as resilience and insulation. 

Lou Dalton's collection brought the audience to rural Britain, where her story revolved around a young farmhand whose clothing had to work hard and bore the effects of an outdoor lifestyle. Bleached separates mimicked the effect of industrial chemicals on utilitarian pieces, but these were softened by pairing with Fair Isle knits and corduroy jackets. 

Even the more smart suits had a relaxed and loose silhouette, that was more akin to a boiler suit than Saville Row. The standout item was a cropped pea coat in heavy navy wool perfect for performing double duty as elegant outerwear and protection against the elements. 

For Dalton, the advantage of the collaboration was one of access to Woolmark licensees and new suppliers through the Wool Lab, which also served as source of inspiration.