Vivienne Westwood Menswear S/S12

As always with Westwood, this collection was very much driven by its theme, from direct translation through prints and emblems to the mood and styling. This time it was the turn of London's 2012 Olympics to receive presentation from the alternative figure head of British Fashion and her new Design Director and husband Andreas Kronthaler. A savvy move perhaps, considering the actual retail date of the collection, next year. Not only were symbols and imagery drawn from the competitions, but also a general feeling for the show was introduced as a 'sporting gentlemen'. The Olympic rings appeared across a number of knit sweaters in an updated solid circle version. The gold wreath symbol came through in prints and accessories as did the infamous torch. The torch appeared as foil front on sweatshirts and then again as screen prints and on knits. One particular t-shirt featured a number of gold medals hanging from the wearers neck, printed to look true to life.

A number of pieces also featured a full all over print of the 2012 logo, really driving home the backing of the event by the house of Westwood. Other inspirations came in the shape of knit track tops, made up in various country's vintage designs. Alongside the sportswear, Westwood also showed a number of suits, in big bold cuts and glossy fabrics. Cuts were loose, with large collars and wide lapels recurring throughout. Houndstooth was again used in a number of ways, seen widely across this season for quite a few designers. This time it was tailored shorts, which were accompanied by looser chino shorts worn with a drill cotton driving mac.