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LONDON, United Kingdom — Lou Dalton's small-but-sweet presentation was a continuation of the British designer's well-crafted wardrobe for smart, professional men who prefer not to wear streamlined suits and neck-constricting ties, but instead, wool tailoring, comfy knits and elevated basics. Dalton usually favours static presentations that capture the Instagram-moment zeitgeist and refocus the lens on the clothes. This time round, models were sat atop large synthetic lifelike rocks (borrowed from Pinewood Studios) that stood in dramatic contrast to the clinical starkness of a high-rise office block in St James.
A sophomore collaboration with John Smedley produced earthy knitwear in mohair and merino wool, as well as chunky knits and novel bobbled style. Dalton said that it helped with securing even more wholesale partners in Japan, where she does substantial business, due to the fact that retailers are comforted by the established production facilities guaranteeing punctual deliveries. Plus, there’s the cachet of the heritage brand and intrinsic quality that comes with it. She described the collection as “casual luxe” and spoke of the need for subtle seasonal developments, rather than reinventing the wheel every season. Judging by the intimate crowd of loyal devotees, she’s clearly onto a successful formula.
