On Monday 13 June Seen in the City was among a star-studded audience at the Joshua Kane SS17 fashion show “Langtry”.

It was the second show we’d seen from the tailoring extraordinaire that is Joshua Kane and we were not disappointed. The showcase was full of surprises right from the start, which was signalled by a curtain of indoor rain that opened onto the runway.

Hosted within the gothic architecture of Christchurch Commercial Street, a hop away from Joshua Kane’s flagship store, it was the perfect setting to showcase his suits, many of which take inspiration from history. Indeed “Langtry” itself harks back to the infamous artistic relationship between acclaimed writer Oscar Wilde and his muse Lily Langtry.

Back in the modern day, we noticed a development of Kane’s iconic digital print designs, marking a continuation of his more familiar collections. The silk printed dress coats were especially eye-catching, along with the deep emerald suits.

Yet we were also treated to a sample of womenswear, with female models featuring on Kane’s catwalk for the first time. A silk jacquard Little Black Dress marked the highlight of Kane’s first foray into female fashion.

While perhaps a little safe, it certainly drew nods of approval all round. However our favourites included a striking trouser suit in crisp cream (complete with hat) and some buttery leather jackets with studded detailing worn by both male and female models.
The haunting melodies of rising star Billy Lockett, whose live vocals and piano flourishes provided the soundtrack to the show, made it a multisensory experience.

A seamless one too, considering Lockett’s track ‘Burn It Down’ is also the theme tune to the fashion film featuring the range, which was directed by Kane himself and released last week in advance of the big night.

With the show also streaming live on Facebook, it was an accessible, multimedia experience for fans and followers alike. It is clear that this artisanal tailor’s avant-garde approach reaches far beyond the actual product.

There was plenty of celebrity spotting to be done too. With Arsenal footballer Sol Campbell and Made In Chelsea star Oliver Proudlock (along with gorgeous model girlfriend Emma Connolly) on the frow, it was as if the whole of London had turned up.

Clearly if any man can draw a crowd on a Monday, it’s Joshua Kane. Expect great things from him in the future.

Here’s a shot we snapped backstage at the show!