Celebrating the beauty of diversity and the art of fashion, LABRUM London has introduced its AW24 collection, 'Journey of Colours.' The collection pays tribute to the inspiring stories of immigrant artists who overcame adversity and made significant contributions to the art and fashion world. From the fabric draping techniques to the silhouettes and accessories, the collection is a harmonious fusion of traditional and contemporary elements.
Photos from LABRUM London's Runway show during London Fashion Week, courtesy of LABRUM London.
A Journey of Colours
The Naimbana patchwork blazer symbolizes the harmonious fusion of different cultures. Made from offcuts from the LABRUM London studio, the improv patchwork design, executed by Masha Guyard, celebrates the rich tapestry that has shaped the world of LABRUM. The hand-free motion quilting of cowrie shells adds a touch of elegance to this beautiful piece.
The collection incorporates a range of global textile techniques, such as digital embroidery, patchwork, quilting, woven textiles, and screen printing. These crafts highlight the diverse color palette of AW24. The silhouettes can be described as a 'Cultural Confluence', embracing the diversity of cuts, shapes, styles, and cross-pollination of cultural identities in the modern world today.
The accessories in the collection are a direct reference and tribute to the journeys made by courageous individuals on a global scale. They pay homage to the way in which people would hold their belongings while on their quests with a contemporary reinterpretation. The vintage suitcases wrapped in LABRUM's monogram fabrics are an eye-catching addition that represents the importance of what is being carried.
Photos from LABRUM London's Runway show during London Fashion Week, courtesy of LABRUM London.
The striking bowl hat made in 30 meters of coiled hemp braid is a proud addition to the collection. Kufi-style crowns and patchwork buckets with signature drawstrings and waterproof tie-tops fuse world-style influences while taking the journey forward. A vintage 1970 Adidas bowling bag chosen for its nostalgic energy has been upcycled to incorporate the black LABRUM Monogram, giving it a layer of new meaning.
The finale showpiece, titled 'FLAGS,' is a reference from an image taken by James L. Stansfield in Thailand of a family crossing the Moei River on a journey for a new beginning. The flags that are draped around the frame represent countries that have been involved in crucial migrations throughout history. The garment is a visual representation of 'Journey of Colours.'
The Inspiration behind LABRUM London's AW24 Collection
LABRUM London demonstrates the beauty that emerges from the harmonious fusion of heritage and modernity. The Creative Director, Foday Dumbuya, invites you to join them as LABRUM reimagines African design as a contemporary language.
This collection's inspiration was drawn from many sources, just as the outfits themselves. The list includes artists such as Man Ray and Eric N. Mac, who are known for their exceptional work in art. Additionally, it draws from artworks such as Valley Curtain by Christo & Jeanne-Claude, a visually stunning art piece. Furthermore, the list includes Lost & Found by Tom Kiefer, which is a thought-provoking exhibition that showcases the confiscated belongings of migrants. The list also features street artist Dreph, nomadic tensile tents, and Cross the River in a Crowd by Nobukho Nqaba. Moreover, the list includes research on Nomoli & Kple Kple masks, popular in African art, and silk rap ikat designs of Afghanistan Turkmens tribes. Finally, the list of inspirations features women's wear silhouettes of Burmese htamein in the 1800s, which is an exciting subject of study for fashion enthusiasts.
Photos from LABRUM London's Runway show during London Fashion Week, courtesy of LABRUM London.
The Conclusion
The AW24 collection is an ode to the art of fashion, celebrating the inspiring stories of immigrant artists who overcame adversity and made significant contributions to the world of art and fashion. The collection's diverse colors, silhouettes, and accessories testify to the beauty that emerges from the harmonious fusion of heritage and modernity. LABRUM London has reimagined African design as a contemporary language, and the results are stunning. The collection is an invitation to join LABRUM on a journey that pays tribute to the courage and resilience of immigrants who have made the world a better place for all of us.