Florence Pugh captivates at Harris Reed's daring fashion show

In February 2025, London Fashion Week featured a remarkable performance by Florence Pugh, who opened Harris Reed's autumn/winter show. The event took place at the Tate Britain, a prominent architectural landmark in London, setting a dramatic backdrop for Reed's collection entitled 'Gilded.' Pugh's entrance was marked by a theatrical display, donning a sculptural black gown with an organza veil, along with false eyelashes that contributed to the show's surreal ambiance. Her presentation included an opening monologue focused on embracing bravery and authenticity, aligning perfectly with Reed's design philosophy of provoking thought through uncomfortability. Harris Reed, known for his avant-garde approach, has made a significant mark in the fashion industry, also leading the French fashion house Nina Ricci. Throughout the show, the collection drew the audience into a world where traditional high fashion coexisted with contemporary styles. Utilitarian silhouettes, featuring catsuits, high-rise tutus, and caged corsets, emerged as prominent elements on the runway. The color palette consisted of cobalt blue and yellow ochre accented with pitch black, providing a striking visual contrast that complemented the show's concept of fluidity and maximalist elegance. The atmosphere was further enhanced by live musical arrangements from cellists, bringing an edgy interpretation of Metallica’s compositions to the runway. This combination of music and visuals allowed guests to experience the collection in an immersive environment. Models displayed sleek hairstyles with dramatic makeup curated by Sofia Tilbury, which harkened to the glamor of London's Blitz Club era. Reed’s thoughtful interplay of textures, shapes, and hues echoed themes from the 1980s, reminiscent of designs seen in collections from other iconic designers like Chanel and Vivienne Westwood. Meanwhile, Bora Aksu showcased a tribute to Empress Sisi at his own presentation during London Fashion Week, exploring the duality of beauty and sorrow. The exceptional craftsmanship and design choices demonstrated an understanding of historical themes in fashion, reflecting Aksu's reputation for a dark, romantic aesthetic. The intricate lacework and structured designs in this collection paid homage to the Empress’s public persona, while also capturing the turbulence of her story through fluid silhouettes and sharp tailoring. Together, these groundbreaking presentations at London Fashion Week highlighted the diverse storytelling potential and rich cultural influences within modern fashion.