By Mairi Lowe

On Friday February 16th, Scottish brand Johnstons of Elgin hosted its very first presentation at London Fashion Week to an international audience. The Autumn Winter 2018 collection, guided by Creative Director Alan Scott, debuted in Central London with 15 womenswear and 5 menswear looks.

The Scottish brand is well known for its expertise in cashmere architecture, and continued this ethos with the new collection being a statement of British luxury and ultimate quality.

“It has taken two years to harness the depth and complexity involved in creating each element in the design process – every fibre, colour, weave structure, knit technology, stitch has been lovingly created in Scotland from scratch” says Scott.

Johnstons of Elgin’s wealth of textile and structural expertise has allowed the brand to enter the luxury arena. Key pieces of the collection feature Stewart tartan, tissue cashmere, stretch matte cashmere, cashmere flannels, pinstripes and hand drawn jacquard designs.

The women’s collection consists of three overarching themes. Sculptural Simplicity offers minimalistic linear silhouettes in matte double-face cashmere in black, natural vicuna and camel.

Athlux Edge explores super soft cashmere statement pieces and exaggerated textures, in neutral tones with flashes of bold colour – electric blue, emerald, red and saffron.

Finally, New Tradition is a modern take on the brand’s heritage showcasing soft sartorial tailoring for women with a contemporary edge.

Keeping in line with the brand’s heritage, the official makeup sponsor for the show was Scottish cosmetics brand Sara Hill Make-up; The Academy of Make-up team being led by talented make-up artist Kat McSwein.

Johnstons of Elgin’s debut at London Fashion Week is a fantastic step forward at exposing the world to Scottish fashion and the country’s great talents.

Creative Director Scott adds “it has been an honour to guide this iconic brand to London Fashion Week for the first time, for the fashion world to see.” We can’t wait to see what the next step will be to ensure Scotland’s deserved recognition in the fashion industry.