Inside The British Library, home to one of the world’s most extensive research collections spanning written civilization, Priya Ahluwalia delivered a collection dedicated to unsung heroes. Allowing her own research to span music, film, art, fashion and social justice, the London-based designer settled on the works of Baya Mahieddine, Madhubala and Marsha P. Johnson as a starting point for creative exploration. Taking over the library’s marbled walls, Ahluwalia unveiled a co-ed collection honouring the brand’s deep-rooted ties to African heritage as narratives of forgotten cultural voices were heard.

Opened by Adwoa Aboah in a red satin two-piece, Ahluwalia’s creations arrived in the form of illusion knitwear and tonal jacquard cardigans, tank tops and one-shoulder dresses. A recurring flower motif weaved its way across sleek button-down shirts, ruched mini-skirts and shorts while soft silk was cut close to the body in sweeping dresses crafted with embellished cowl necks and thigh splits.

Hues of magenta, cyanic blue and mustard ochre formed the colour palette for Ahluwalia’s menswear, constructed into pleated trousers and double-breasted suit jackets, while slouchy tracksuits were given structure. Distorted zebra prints came alive on boiler suits and collarless jackets, while in true Ahluwalia fashion, denim was at the core as co-ordinating two pieces sauntered down the library steps.