cartoonish codes

JW Anderson FW16
By Lewis Firth | Fashion | 14 January 2016
Photography Takanori Okuwaki

Symbolism was J.W. Anderson’s candidate of manipulation for FW16. The designer looked to culturally specific codes and signifiers and how and why experiences differ between geographical locations.

Cryptic messaging is part of Anderson’s process: on Thursday it was announced that the hook-up app, Grindr, would be pairing with the designer for a live-stream of his show. It’s in line-with Grindr’s play for a more high end image, a pairing that was considered as an unlikely partnership but in many ways makes sense. According to a report in the New York Times, Anderson said he chose the pairing to highlight fashion’s ‘sexy’ side. Anyway, over seven-million users employ the app, it’s great exposure.

Remover by Container blared at the beginning, you could feel the bass. Knowing of the collaboration with Grindr, expectations were high. Would it somehow inspire his designs? Did it mean something deeper? Grindr is symbolic of a generation hooked to the Internet, a cultural reality that Anderson is well tuned into and that surges through his output.

Motifs of snails, space-age guns and George Studdy’s iconic cartoon character Bonzo the Dog were sporadically placed on silk suit jackets with wide lapels, metallic organza – that flowed like liquid – trousers and coats. Again: connotations will differ; interpretation based on personal experience is, naturally, encouraged. Anderson’s hand for craft was present as ever: worn-looking, super-baggy knits, fur overcoats, and laser-cut leather separates. Anderson’s symbolism on symbolism was symbolic.

GALLERYBackstage images from JW Anderson FW16

GALLERYCatwalk images from JW Anderson FW16





BACKSTAGE