Crouching Tiger, Elizabethan Dragon; the Sorapol label showed a new maturity last night with their AW13 collection with a packed to the rafters presentation held in the fabulously frayed grandeur of London’s historic 33 Portland Place, that not only included London’s nightlife elite as standard for this much loved duo, but also serious fashion figures such as Hilary Alexander and photographer Perou. It was more polished and sedate than has been before, with a deeper level of well though and executed design so intricate in cases one couldn’t help but feel in awe. There was less focus on theatrics and vaudeville, more on craftsmanship and design with lavish silks and decadent hand embroidery and prints. Sorapol, and Creative Director Daniel Lismore, presented an astounding collection that referenced both traditional Oriental costume as well as British, reflecting the brands heritage in an astounding plundering and updating of fashion heritage in an exotic extravaganza of pure luxury.
Each beautiful look is well worthy of any high fashion editorial, a regal fantasy of traditional designs that are updated with modern cuts and juxtaposing silhouettes. Sublime accessorising complete each look that include some of the most amazing headpieces I have yet to see. The label again incorporated menswear looks into the collection in an all white palette that including a beautiful sheer shirt with brocade style bib.
Congratulations to the boys at Sorapol on a stunning collection, a marker that this brand is not just a whimsy, but a serious fashion house that is here to stay.
Photography : Daniel Ellyot Moore