Last week we attended one of the biggest weeks in British fashion, London Fashion Week. Throughout the 5 day showcase, London Fashion week lent its runways to a plethora of incredibly talented designers, Chanel Joan Elkayam being one of them.
The 21-year old designer who currently studies Womenswear at Central Saint Martins, and happens to be the youngest fashion designer to showcase a collection at Paris Fashion week at the mere 18 years of age, creates simple and timeless collections with a youthful, sensual aesthetic.
Her London show was curated around the bold statement ‘I don’t follow, I lead’ and the young talent certainly lived up to the huge statement as she proved that fashion is inclusive and shouldn’t discriminate against age, weight, race or disability.
In Chanel’s stellar show, which was opened by transgender model and activist Munroe Bergdorf followed by Kate Grant, a Down’s syndrome model breaking down barriers, there were exquisite cut lines intertwined into expressive, chic and opulent pieces which were both wearable and experimental.
In addition to these notably famous, stereotype-challenging models walking the catwalk there was inclusivity on all levels laced throughout. Mentioned afore the show, in a video clip complied by the designer, Chanel highlighted the importance of having diversity on her runway and even mentioned she asks random women on the street to model for her purely because she thought they were beautiful.
Throughout the inspirational show models of all ages, races, backgrounds and appearances graced the catwalk showing off the intricately designed masterpieces.
Chanel Joan Elkayam isn’t one to include diversity as a tick box. Instead she seemingly cares about it because it’s the right thing to do and with that she will continue to pioneer diversity in fashion in the future.
The inspiring young designer leads in life and fashion as she promotes an honourable message that ‘everyone should lead their lives on their own terms unconstraint of others expectations.’
For more information head over to www.chaneljoanelkayam.com