The six-model lineup that opened tonight’s show, silhouetted against the doors of the house of Anna Sui, could easily have been a cool rock n’ roll band from the late Sixties, early Seventies – prime Sui territory. Jamie Bochert, in a cassis swirly print shirt and cropped velvet trousers, would be the frontwoman, of course, and everyone would wear a lot of big, shaggy fur. Bochert even got cheered from her fans in the audience, mainly Karen Elson sitting front row, and she tried very hard to not crack and smile (she did). There is a real joy that comes from watching an Anna Sui show and not just because that’s fun to say aloud. Plainly speaking, Sui is free to do whatever she wants.
Among the swingy A-line minis and psychedelic floral dresses – paired with matching suede thigh-highs – were a few print trouser suits that really stood out. Single-breasted jackets and cropped, slightly flared trousers in floral jacquard or a black cat print were paired with clashing frilly blouses – you could imagine Florence Welch in them. Jamie Bochert in a forest green one with a chevron mink coat thrown on top, a big scarf and glittery sunglasses looked like a rock star just in town for a gig. A shimmering gumdrop-coloured print dress was gathered at the hem for an extra kick and a pop-y heart print chiffon dress was particularly great. The name of the print? All You Need Is Love. There’s a song there somewhere.