The Spring/Summer 2015 collection from London's trio of exuberant and eclectic knitters today could have been titled Desperately Seeking Sibling, such was its immediate recall of a certain Lower East Side eighties vibe. Madonna, circa Lucky Star, even featured as a portrait on a knit.
Beyond the label's signature fitted fine gauges - this time in blue gingham and argyle - there was Basquiat and Haring-esque disco graffiti rendered in sequins and micro-pailettes on incongruously chic cardigans and tubi-skirts. In fact, another title for the show might have been Twinsets and Tit Tape.
And while the eighties party scene references were plain enough, in Claude Montana shoulders and the odd batwing sleeve, they didn't overwhelm, nor did they run to the over-literal. More innovative pieces, such as a bandeau and sweater dress made from grey elastic bands and voluminous, giant crochet mini- and maxiskirts, served to underline a certain progression, despite the retro feel.
Sibling are aware of the commercial pull towards their pieces; they're fashion week nuggets for the rest of the year - and as such they need to enhance a wardrobe rather dictating a look. The bouncy, bubbly Borderline-era looks they showed today will do just that.
