Flannel came into being this time last year, during RAFW 2010. Although the label itself had been in existence for some time, it was only after their debut show that the burgeoning brand began to gain widespread industry recognition. This was mainly due to the easy separates and luxe fabrications, mainly organic cottons, linen and wool. This year was an extension of everything that was great last year, proving that Creative Director Kristy Lawrence knows what her customer wants. ‘la sakura’ is the SS1112 offering, taking inspiration from the new cherry blossom print and the opulence of 1930′s France, ‘informed by a refined Asian aesthetic’.

The show opened with a beautiful white confection, with sandwashed silk pants, paired with a thick cotton knit vest. This was shortly followed by a series of delicate pin-tucking, seen in blouses and jackets. Flannel continued their love affair with leather fringing, which was so succesful for them editorially last year. This time around it was slightly less western, and more in keeping with the oriental theme. Velvet was also a continuation on the theme, proving that the somewhat dubious fabrication must be doing well for them. Luxe leather was back in full force, the simple shift shape of seasons past now reborn with multiple panels. A firey red was the standout, adding a punch to the otherwise tonal looks.

Flannel always use the highest quality leathers, and more often than not backed in an entirely different fabric all together. Last season it was all about corduroy backed leather, and for summer it has swapped to denim and billowing silk for ease of movement. To celebrate the Japanese inspiration Flannel decided to make the first ever print an homage to all things Kimono. The print was entirely traditional, featuring iconic images such as scenery and traditional ornaments. It was really rather beautiful and will be the perfect ‘risk’ piece for the more conservative customer. The styling was minimal, but only because the clothes spoke for themselves. We rather love the citrus yellow ankle boot and don’t want to wait until summer to lay our hands on some!

Photos courtesy Luke Byrne, pages’ official RAFW photographer