Bunmi Koko SS12: The Allure of the Sirens

The stage was set to a nautical feel with washed up nets and life rings for Bunmi Koko's SS12 collection, The Allure of the Sirens looking to the temptresses who lured sailors to their deaths in Greek mythology. The designer, Nigerian born Bunmi Olaye, wanted to play with alluring designs and a sense of danger. The make up was a strong statement and glowing with a fantasy element to it, and the hair the biggest and wildest I saw all London Fashion Week.
The team at Bunmi Koko worked with talented young singer Tallia Storm to create a unique piece of music for the soundtrack of the show. The live music had a mystical feel to it and complemented the collection perfectly, making the show an extra special experience.
The garments showcased a vibrant colour palette with yellow accents complimenting navy, along with gorgeous shades of turquoise, ocean blue and burnt orange, sometimes with contrasting colour pops in rope jewellery. These clothes will look absolutely gorgeous out in the summer sunshine. There were a few pretty pale salmon tones too and the odd washed out stone colour, reminiscent of something washed up on the beach and bleached of its colour. The models were elegant and yet they felt a little like scavengers.
There were some intriguing heavily structured pieces but I particularly liked the soft ones with lots of fluid movement like lapping waves upon the shore. The free feel of the fabrics fits suggests the freedom that the sea represents to sailors. The accordion pleating in soft fabrics was especially successful, I thought, creating another element of texture and movement within the piece.