Casely-Hayford, Kings of Kingsland

While stalking through the embryonic and reactionary work of the young exhibitors at the static shows, I came upon something notably different. The art direction was striking: music with dance hall lyrical delivery and staccato Ska organ style; models stood stock still like Mohawked Sapeur-esque statues. The clothes demanded attention, and they too stood up. The lightly handled soft tailoring included evening wear flourishes such as shawl collars and a bit of sparkle. Shirts featured clever semi detached fastenings; pants had cuffed bottoms to show off the fancy slipper style footwear. This didn’t feel like a debut collection. Way too confident and accomplished. How Curious. Then I spotted the lofty Casely-Hayford Junior amongst the fashion throng and everything became apparent. Joe Casely-Hayford, the much honoured and respected fashion designer has worked with everyone from Gieve&Hawkes to The Clash. Now this eponymous collaboration is with his son, Charlie, and is the labels third collection.

I nabbed an impromptu father and son interview on the spot, where they tell FQR about their mix and blend amalgamation. Although creative, men’s fashion at LFW frequently lacks finesse. Working inspiration from Hoxton Hoorays, a dash of history and a shrewd international overview, these two seemed to have nailed both. Witnessing this ‘snip off the old block’ moment was my favourite at LFW bar none.

- Tom Stubbs is FQR’s online style editor

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