British design house Erdem created its SS22 collection as a love letter for London’s idiosyncratic soul. It featured a variety of sculpted pieces and intricately embellished gowns, as well genderbending tailoring.
The line was inspired by Edith Sitwell, a 20th Century poet, and Ottoline Morrell (an English aristocrat), and aimed to capture the style and personalities of these beautiful muses through glamorous yet elegant designs. The brand released a statement about the women, saying that it was their passion for individualism that they celebrate today. “Erdem is, and always has been, about empowerment individual expression.”
The collection incorporated menswear and ladieswear, creating feminine but sometimes boyish pieces. It also offered a wide range of casual and formal styles. The show featured a wide range of day-to-night and two-piece suits.
The collection featured many highlights, including experimental textiles. Some pieces featured lace motifs in waxed cottons, and others had larger floral patterns in bolder designs. The contrast monochromatic patterns in structural two pieces and dresses stood out alongside the romantic bohemia gowns.
Some items were reminiscent of Morrell’s, including oversized crushed satin hats that look like what Morrell wore. Structured trench coats were designed to reflect Sitwell’s style with pearl buttons and large jewellery.
A variety of evening looks was also available, in addition to the relaxed ones. Bright sequin-adorned floor-length gowns and an embroidered a line dress were both event-worthy. The selection of pencil skirts and linen dresses featured hand-sewn beads, creating a glamorous look for even the simplest styles.
This collection was dominated by lace. Bohemian broderie-anglaise suits and dresses highlighted the romanticism that the line attempted to portray, with ribbons and botanical print accents that further emphasized the 20th Century spirit the brand was inspired from.
