London Fashion Week never fails to disappoint and this year was no exception.

At the Autumn Winter 17  Trend Catwalk, a receptive audience was treated to a plethora of creativity and colour and abundant inspiration for this Season’s wardrobe.

Hosted by Irish television personality, Darren Kennedy and styled by British stylist, Julia Brenard, the Festival was the embodiment of London Spirit and held at The Store Studios on 180 The Strand. Diverse and experimental, the Show delivered 3 wearable trends from this year’s Catwalks.

Starting with “That Seventies Show” there was a real retro feel. The theme was cool and relaxed, but modest. Investment pieces are flared silhouettes, high-necked blouses and pussy bows. Key season colours are purples, mustard, orange and lots of brown.

“Suiting” was another trend dominating the Catwalk, with the Trouser Suit in strong evidence. Suits were sharp and slick, in a mix of shapes, styles and fabrics and were paired with crisp shirts and statement accessories. Colours were classic, wearable tones in greys and blues.

The final theme presented was “Dazzle” and it certainly did. In addition to gold and silver fabrics, there was pewter, gunmetal and bronze. Bling is going to be big for AW17. As well as gorgeous, rich textiles, there were extravagant embellishments in diamante & gems, as well as the more subtle introduction of gold and silver detail in buttons and fastenings.

Whilst makeup at the AW17 Trend Catwalk (courtesy of Maybelline New York) was mainly minimal, the trends that stole the main Fashion Shows this year were as diverse as Tribal to Gothic and everything in between.

Natural minimalism has been making an appearance on the Catwalk for many seasons, but AW17 sees that look transferring in to something more groomed and sophisticated. Minimal eye makeup, a nude lip and flawless, glowing skin.

At the other extreme we have Graphic Eyes; shapes created with shadows & liners on the lids. Extreme Cat-Eyes with exaggerated flicks or overlapping different colours for something different and edgy.

Oversized lashes are a key trend for AW17. Super-long, Sixties style and almost doll-like. Lashes on the lower lids are also in vogue.

With lips, if it’s not nude then it’s bold. Statement, confident colours in dark shades and even in two tones.

If you’ve never attended London Fashion Week Festival, I’d highly recommend it. The Event is a real hub of cultural activity. In addition to the Catwalk Shows, giving you exclusive access “up close” to the key season trends, there is extensive designer shopping from British and International brands at reduced prices.

You don’t need to be a Celebrity, Professional Makeup Artist or Beauty Blogger, it’s a great day out for Fashion Lovers of all ages.


Christiane Dowling is a Professional Freelance Makeup Artist for Weddings, Bridal, Proms, Photo Shoots, Makeup Lessons & all Special Occasions.

Based in Sandhurst , Christiane covers all of Berkshire, Hampshire & Surrey including Sandhurst, Crowthorne, Yateley, Finchampstead, Eversley, Shinfield, Reading, Burghfield, Wokingham, Binfield, Bracknell, Maiden’s Green, Warfield, Ascot, Sunningdale, Sunninghill, Virginia Water, Egham, Wentworth, Chertsey, Eton, Windsor, Datchet, Chobham, Woking, Guildford, Godalming, Frensham, Hindhead, Farnham, Churt, Bentley, Bordon, Aldershot, Church Crookham, Fleet, Hartley Wintney, Hook, Basingstoke, Farnborough, Fleet & across London.

Christiane also works nationally & internationally.

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