Qasimi staged its latest womenswear collection at the Old Sorting Office which had been draped in black cloth with the only lighting being courtesy of the floor to ceiling light installation which guests were seated around. Known for their intricate detailing and expressive yet wearable creations, the designer wowed the audience from the outset. Strong colours such as orange, red and gold opened the show and saw an array of heavily studded and structured dresses, cropped jackets and mini skirts glided down the runway. Sharp and curved shoulders and lashings of embellishment tastefully splattered on blouses, jackets and dresses alike, were clear themes running throughout the collection which, also featured romantic pieces in the form of billowing chiffon evening dresses and jumpsuits in champagne hues and aqua blue, respectively. Above the knee and full length matte gold sequin harem pants, studding on pockets and cut out details on the back of most pieces, were other highlights of the show.

We caught up with the designer backstage to inquire as to his inspirations behind the collection, amongst other things.

Read more after the jump

Backstage with John Rocha, I learned two things: The man loves Cate Blanchett in Elizabeth (what sane person doesn't?), and he grows hyper-critical of his work after fashion week.


"I do feel this is one of the best collections I've done," he said, dressed in the same black blazer he's worn at FW for years. "If I design something and I don't like it, how can I convince anyone else to like it? I did it, I love what I did, and we move on.

"In a few weeks time when I start on my spring collection, I'll look back and say, ooh, that was a bit dodgy. But being able to say that is what makes you a better designer."

So there you have it, budding fashion stars: You'll need a healthy sense of self-judgment to make it in the style scene. That, and a great sense of personal taste. "Love your bag," Rocha told me before I left for Qasimi. Thanks, Johnny.