“London is a roost for every bird.”
— Benjamin Disraeli
Founded by the Romans around AD 43–50, London is roughly comparable to Paris in age. Paris, originally known as Lutetia, dates back more than 2,000 years, with Roman London established somewhat later. Considering the centuries of rivalry and wars between England and France, it is interesting how compatible the two cities have become. While Paris has cultivated a reputation for chic style and haute couture, many Parisians come to London for street style that is creative, original and cutting-edge. Indeed, there is not only “a roost for every bird,” but also a remarkable variety of style birds on the streets of London.
Arriving in London in early September for a three-month stay to study Fashion Editorial Styling, I was just in time for the big three European Fashion Weeks: London, Milan and Paris.
The Kimpton Fitzroy Hotel is my roost for the stay. Designed by architect Charles Fitzroy Doll in 1898, the hotel opened in 1900. Doll was known for his love of embellishment, and his ornate signature style certainly gives new meaning to the expression “all dolled up.” How appropriate for a hotel that has witnessed 126 years of dressing up!
My first opportunity to dress up was London Fashion Week.
London offers an original aesthetic and a fresh approach to fashion. Since the 1960s, the city has developed a reputation for fearless fashion experimentation, and it is here that many emerging designers find their niche and first audiences.
One such designer is Sarah Regensburger. Of Iranian descent and born in Germany, Regensburger has established her independent fashion label within London’s creative design community. Her work reflects a clear underlying philosophy rooted in sustainability and the vegan movement. Her creations are as much art and cultural or political statements as they are clothing. With names like “I Am a Rebel Hoodie,” “Amazonian Jacket” and “Be-leaf in You,” she and her loyal followers believe deeply in making positive changes for the future.
Roksanda is another London-based fashion house. Founded in 2005, the brand has attracted a following among women who love bold color combinations, sculptural shapes and clean, confident lines. It is a sophisticated and dramatic look with a distinctly London edge.
Milan, meanwhile, is working hard to assert itself as the world’s fashion capital. This year, the city hosted VOGUE WORLD: MILANO (September 22) inside the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
Milan takes a more studied approach to fashion, showcasing its celebrated heritage houses, including Prada, Gucci, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana and Bottega Veneta. Of course, Milan has its up-and-coming designers, too.
GENNY (link here), a house with historical ties to Gianni Versace, is presenting fresh, fashion-forward looks under creative director Sara Cavazza Facchini. Her designs combine modern femininity with practical appeal, offering uniquely personal styles that range from tailored sophistication to the sensually whimsical, with pieces inspired by art and nature. The variety of combinations worn by guests attending the show demonstrated just how versatile the collection is—and how individual style can be.
Paris offered its signature high-end, seemingly effortless chic. At Elie Saab’s Spring/Summer 2027 Ready-to-Wear show, it was all about floaty, feminine, slip-like silhouettes. His signature codes of soft colors, glamour and flowing fabrics offered a counterbalance to London’s edgier offerings. However, corset-like fitted bodices introduced a more provocative element, adding just enough spice to keep things interesting and challenge London’s claim to fashion daring.
My perch at the Kimpton Fitzroy has allowed me a bird’s-eye view of emerging trends as revealed by these three fashion capitals.
A final project for my London studies is a Trend Prediction for 2030/2031—five years into the future! Runway shows generally offer a glimpse of style trends 12–18 months ahead, but a five-year prediction is quite another leap!
So, as we look toward 2030 and 2031, what do you predict will define your own Purely Personal style?
