CSM MA 2021 SHOW: A CHAOTIC AND IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE

The Central Saint Martins MA Fashion graduate show is always a major spectacle, with students, industry professionals and fashion lovers walking through the hallowed halls of the school to see the work of upcoming designers. However this year, in response to social distancing rules as expected, the show has gone virtual. The show, which launched yesterday, takes place on a chaotic and immersive website that acts as a digitised version of the school’s campus. Following a welcome speech by Michèle Lamy, viewers are able to explore rooms that feature the work and behind-the-scenes images and clips of the designers. The website, although clunky at times and reminiscent of a Playstation 1 game, is a testament to the rising digitisation of fashion, and how creatives have been able to adapt. 

There were a total of 33 designers showcasing their work on the website. As usual, L’Oréal Professionnel was the principal sponsor of the show. This year’s L’Oréal Professionnel Creative Award winners included womenswear designer Sól Hansdóttir and textile pathway designer António Castro who were presented their awards by Gabriella Karena-Johnson. 

There were a number of designers that stood out to us, one of them being Vivien Canadas with ‘A Sip of Fresh Air’. The womenswear designer displayed bold single-coloured outfits, with exaggerated outerwear, overflowing skirts, tapered trousers and faux sock-like sandals.

Tasha Sweeney is definitely one to watch. Sweeney focuses on knitwear, presenting ‘Trackies & Trainees’, which are a series of hybrid garments that are inspired both by traditional Northern heritage and Everton Football Club. With repurposed football boots and tracksuits, this collection carries forth a vintage match day out feel.

And finally, menswear designer Chloé Nardin wants to “bring romanticism to sportswear” with her collection. Inspired by modern France, the designer showcased a number of pieces that range from athleisure to loungewear, in striking patterns and relaxed cuts. 

To document the building of the final year collections, CSM has produced a photo book by Anna Fox; one of Britain’s leading photographers. The photobook, titled ‘BLINK’, costs £60 (US$82) and is available exclusively on the Machine-A website, with all proceeds going to CSM.

Check out the full Central Saint Martins MA Fashion Show for yourself here.

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