Fashion Shenzhen: JiXiang Zhai

In China's Guangdong province Shenzhen is established as China's garment and textiles capital and for the last five years Fashion Shenzhen at London Fashion Week has offered a fabulous showcase of China's exciting emerging design talent.
The JiXiang Zhai catwalk collection was one of my highlights of the week, opening with vibrant pinks, mints and oranges reminiscent of the finest jewels. Through details of cut, such as collars, Chinese heritage emerged and the hand-embroidered floral details were exquisite. The garments were slim fitting with nipped in waists, creating a curving and delicately feminine silhouette emphasised at times with soft draping. Beautifully flowing skirts, often with slits, allowed mesmerising movement.
The collection continued with two heavily embroidered yellow frocks, with layers of intricate detail built up in a manner which reminded me of ornate pottery. Panels of embroidery continued into the remaining dresses, contrasted with a striking midnight blue crushed velvet.
JiXiang Zhai paired a wonderful sense of history with incredible craftsmanship to create a collection with the most gorgeous gowns perfect for the modern elegant woman.