by Grace Gordon

Aquascutum has seen their fair share of runway shows. The design house was established in the UK in 1851, and has had a strong following among cultural icons for decades. For a brand most strongly associated with menswear, the masculine aesthetic of Joanna Syke’s debut collection for Aquascutum was apropos.

The emphasis on the runway was layers and more layers. Masculine trench coats were worn atop layered skirts – causing a blocky silhouette. Low-slung skater trousers looked sexy and androgynous – transmitting a strong streetwear message. Asymmetrical cuts, geometric patterned blouses, and oversized trenches outnumbered the occasional waffle-print sweater and orange jumpsuit. Gigantic utilitarian pockets emphasized hips, and oversized collars and lapels, along with plunging necklines, highlighted shoulders and décolletage. There was a distinct outdoorsy, sportswear feel to most of this collection. This is daywear for the casual woman with aspirations toward trendsetting hipness.